Hearts on the Wind
Leslee Breene
Five Star, Oct 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147166
In 1876 Swedish-American Ingrid Johansson hates the farming life her family has created for themselves in Eden Valley, Minnesota. She yearns for much more as she perfers books like Ivanhoe. Nagging her parents to give her a different life , she persuades them to send her to Minneapolis to attend the St. Agnes Women's Academy where she will study to become a teacher.
At the academy Ingrid and affluent Norwegian-American railroad heir Andreas Eriksen are attracted to one another. When the pair are caught in an unacceptable compromising position, she is warned to carry herself with proper decorum or be sent home in disgrace. As she struggles between her love for Andreas and her love of teaching, her stepsister, Dagmar plots to make Andreas her husband.
This engaging Americana romance provides readers with a strong glimpse of working conditions for those employed by the railroads. The lead couple are both fully developed characters but the key support cast seems thinner than a rail. Still in spite of implausible spins especially involving Ingrid, historical fans will enjoy this look at Reconstruction Era America through the eyes of a young woman who wants the dream.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, September 29, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
A Virgin River Christmas-Robyn Carr
A Virgin River Christmas
Robyn Carr
Mira, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0778325733
Four years ago in the battle of Fallujah, US Marine Ian Buchanan risked his life to save his brother in arms Bobby Sullivan. Three years after that heroism, never having recovered from his wounds twenty-six years old Bobby died. His widow Marcie grieved her loss even before he passed away as she knew he would never recover.
Over the years Marcie sent letters to Ian thanking him, but all returned unopened; he simply vanished. Obstinate and resolute, Marcie decides to find Ian to personally thank him. She traces him to Virgin River; Ian is unhappy to see her as he lives the life of a hermit selling firewood. He needs to forget Iraq, especially Fallujah and Bobby. Marcie feels a deep need to save his soul; in her mind he is not living. As they fall in love, she needs to persuade him to let go of the past so they can share a future.
The return to the small isolated Redwoods town of Virgin River is a triumph as the lead couple is as complex a pair of characters as one is apt to read. Especially intricate is the former marine who suffers from a deep post traumatic stress disorder from what he did and saw in Fallujah. With some jocularity to lighten the tense tale, readers will relish the spending Christmas with a Virgin River romance.
Harriet Klausner
Robyn Carr
Mira, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0778325733
Four years ago in the battle of Fallujah, US Marine Ian Buchanan risked his life to save his brother in arms Bobby Sullivan. Three years after that heroism, never having recovered from his wounds twenty-six years old Bobby died. His widow Marcie grieved her loss even before he passed away as she knew he would never recover.
Over the years Marcie sent letters to Ian thanking him, but all returned unopened; he simply vanished. Obstinate and resolute, Marcie decides to find Ian to personally thank him. She traces him to Virgin River; Ian is unhappy to see her as he lives the life of a hermit selling firewood. He needs to forget Iraq, especially Fallujah and Bobby. Marcie feels a deep need to save his soul; in her mind he is not living. As they fall in love, she needs to persuade him to let go of the past so they can share a future.
The return to the small isolated Redwoods town of Virgin River is a triumph as the lead couple is as complex a pair of characters as one is apt to read. Especially intricate is the former marine who suffers from a deep post traumatic stress disorder from what he did and saw in Fallujah. With some jocularity to lighten the tense tale, readers will relish the spending Christmas with a Virgin River romance.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, September 26, 2008
Diamond Duo-Marcia Gruver
Diamond Duo
Marcia Gruver
Barbour, Oct 2008, $10.97
ISBN: 9781602602052
In 1877 in Jefferson, Texas, Bertha Biddie loves Thaddeus Bloom, but he shows no return of her deep affection beyond friendliness. Desperate to win her man, she asks newly-arrived Annie Stone, who Dr. Turner calls Bessie and allegedly knows her way around men, for help. Bertha idolizes the confident Annie
Thaddeus actually hides how he feels about Bertha whom he loves. However, his father demands he attend the recently opened Texas Agricultural and Mechanical College, a military school, which he will though his younger brother is the bookworm. He desperately wants to ask Bertha to wait for him, but he never finds a way to do so before he leaves. He is unaware he broke her heart. However Annie’s murder shakes up the townsfolk and leaves Bertha to know she is on her own to gain Thaddeus’s heart.
The first Texas Fortunes historical romance is a terific late Reconstruction era tale that brings to life a port city. The murder of Annie also known as Diamond Bessie Monroe is a real event that anchors the well written story line; as Marcia Gruver easily blends fact and fiction. With a strong cast especially the lead couple who each has self esteem issues, fans of Reconstruction Era romances will want to read the delightful DIAMOND DUO.
Harriet Klausner
Marcia Gruver
Barbour, Oct 2008, $10.97
ISBN: 9781602602052
In 1877 in Jefferson, Texas, Bertha Biddie loves Thaddeus Bloom, but he shows no return of her deep affection beyond friendliness. Desperate to win her man, she asks newly-arrived Annie Stone, who Dr. Turner calls Bessie and allegedly knows her way around men, for help. Bertha idolizes the confident Annie
Thaddeus actually hides how he feels about Bertha whom he loves. However, his father demands he attend the recently opened Texas Agricultural and Mechanical College, a military school, which he will though his younger brother is the bookworm. He desperately wants to ask Bertha to wait for him, but he never finds a way to do so before he leaves. He is unaware he broke her heart. However Annie’s murder shakes up the townsfolk and leaves Bertha to know she is on her own to gain Thaddeus’s heart.
The first Texas Fortunes historical romance is a terific late Reconstruction era tale that brings to life a port city. The murder of Annie also known as Diamond Bessie Monroe is a real event that anchors the well written story line; as Marcia Gruver easily blends fact and fiction. With a strong cast especially the lead couple who each has self esteem issues, fans of Reconstruction Era romances will want to read the delightful DIAMOND DUO.
Harriet Klausner
Something Very Wild-Mary Zelinsky
Something Very Wild
Mary Zelinsky
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 1594147191
Family matriarch Clotilde Galen is outraged by her daughter Chloe’s latest college scandal in which she was tossed from the University of Mississippi, her third expulsion. Clotilde informs her wild child no more. She will pay tuition at a local art school, but Chloe will live on her own with no other help. Sunned Chloe’s friend Sara allows her to move into her dump of an apartment and she obtains work at La Bella Gallery owned by a friend of her late father.
At the same time, Atlanta based FBI agent Aaron Porter comes home to New Orleans to work on art fraud. The evidence points towards La Bella Gallery. When he meets Chloe, they are instantly attracted to one another, but he hides his law enforcement undercover role from her and she conceals her family wealth from him. They assume the other is a poor student. As they fall in love, the case turns deadly.
The second Galen New Orleans Legacy romantic suspense thriller (see SOMETHING VERY WICKED starring Chloe’s oldest brother) is an enjoyable police procedural cozy with an emphasis on the romance. The story line contains a few delightful spins although the art mystery is secondary, as it is the lead couple and their relationships with each other and with family members that make for a something very fine tale.
Harriet Klausner
Mary Zelinsky
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 1594147191
Family matriarch Clotilde Galen is outraged by her daughter Chloe’s latest college scandal in which she was tossed from the University of Mississippi, her third expulsion. Clotilde informs her wild child no more. She will pay tuition at a local art school, but Chloe will live on her own with no other help. Sunned Chloe’s friend Sara allows her to move into her dump of an apartment and she obtains work at La Bella Gallery owned by a friend of her late father.
At the same time, Atlanta based FBI agent Aaron Porter comes home to New Orleans to work on art fraud. The evidence points towards La Bella Gallery. When he meets Chloe, they are instantly attracted to one another, but he hides his law enforcement undercover role from her and she conceals her family wealth from him. They assume the other is a poor student. As they fall in love, the case turns deadly.
The second Galen New Orleans Legacy romantic suspense thriller (see SOMETHING VERY WICKED starring Chloe’s oldest brother) is an enjoyable police procedural cozy with an emphasis on the romance. The story line contains a few delightful spins although the art mystery is secondary, as it is the lead couple and their relationships with each other and with family members that make for a something very fine tale.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
One Perfect Gift-Kathleen Morgan
One Perfect Gift
Kathleen Morgan
Revell, Sep 2008, $14.99
ISBN: 9780800718831
In 1933 penniless widow Jessica Ashmore accompanied by her six year old daughter Emma moves from Baltimore to Grand View, Colorado where she has obtained work as a caretaker to stroke victim Abby MacKay. Jessica and Emma move into Abby’s home, the Culdee Creek Ranch. The mom hopes for a real holiday season for her daughter on this ranch east of Colorado Springs.
However, Jessica is stunned when she meets her employer’s acrimonious adult son, Sean. He seems angry at the world and at times takes it out on Jessica. Still they work as a team trying to do what is best for his mom while falling in love. However, they have no future unless Sean can overcome the demons that haunt him; Jessica believes God can help guide him, but Sean’s anguish keeps him blind.
ONE PERFECT GIFT is a terific Depression Era romance starring two people who have reacted to personal traumas differently. Whereas Sean is filled with anger, Jessica is filled with God and love for her child. Fans will appreciate this Colorado historical tale of redemption if Sean will only reach out for it.
Harriet Klausner
Kathleen Morgan
Revell, Sep 2008, $14.99
ISBN: 9780800718831
In 1933 penniless widow Jessica Ashmore accompanied by her six year old daughter Emma moves from Baltimore to Grand View, Colorado where she has obtained work as a caretaker to stroke victim Abby MacKay. Jessica and Emma move into Abby’s home, the Culdee Creek Ranch. The mom hopes for a real holiday season for her daughter on this ranch east of Colorado Springs.
However, Jessica is stunned when she meets her employer’s acrimonious adult son, Sean. He seems angry at the world and at times takes it out on Jessica. Still they work as a team trying to do what is best for his mom while falling in love. However, they have no future unless Sean can overcome the demons that haunt him; Jessica believes God can help guide him, but Sean’s anguish keeps him blind.
ONE PERFECT GIFT is a terific Depression Era romance starring two people who have reacted to personal traumas differently. Whereas Sean is filled with anger, Jessica is filled with God and love for her child. Fans will appreciate this Colorado historical tale of redemption if Sean will only reach out for it.
Harriet Klausner
All I Have to Give-Melody Carlson
All I Have to Give
Melody Carlson
Revell, Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780800718824
Anna and Michael love one another and believe their lives are almost perfect except for two major things. First Anna has had recent health issues that have shaken the couple with the mortality reminder of how short life is; each of the loving pair is more concerned over how her illness mentally harms the other. Second the pair is saddened over their seemingly inability to have children; a desire both want.
In their late thirties and having tried seemingly forever, they have given up on kids. Being pragmatic Anna considers changing their once planned nursery into a guest room. Meanwhile Anna and Michael consider what would be the ideal Christmas gift to give to their beloved mate to cheer them up.
ALL I HAVE TO GIVE in some ways will remind the audience of the Gift of the Magi as an uplifting inspiring holiday drama. The support cast like Anna’s sister enhances the plot by bringing enlightenment to the audience re how much the lead couple love one another. Anna and Michael are a wonderful duet who’s caring for one another makes for a delightful warm Christmas tale of love.
Harriet Klausner
Melody Carlson
Revell, Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780800718824
Anna and Michael love one another and believe their lives are almost perfect except for two major things. First Anna has had recent health issues that have shaken the couple with the mortality reminder of how short life is; each of the loving pair is more concerned over how her illness mentally harms the other. Second the pair is saddened over their seemingly inability to have children; a desire both want.
In their late thirties and having tried seemingly forever, they have given up on kids. Being pragmatic Anna considers changing their once planned nursery into a guest room. Meanwhile Anna and Michael consider what would be the ideal Christmas gift to give to their beloved mate to cheer them up.
ALL I HAVE TO GIVE in some ways will remind the audience of the Gift of the Magi as an uplifting inspiring holiday drama. The support cast like Anna’s sister enhances the plot by bringing enlightenment to the audience re how much the lead couple love one another. Anna and Michael are a wonderful duet who’s caring for one another makes for a delightful warm Christmas tale of love.
Harriet Klausner
A Passion Redeemed-Julie Lessman
A Passion Redeemed
Julie Lessman
Revell, Sep 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780800732127
In 1919 Dublin Charity O'Connor loves Mitch Dennehy, but he seems to ignore her. Desperate for him to reciprocate her feelings, she starts flirting with Mitch's enemy, black sheep Rigan Gallagher III, to make her beloved jealous and take notice of her.
Mitch is disturbed with Charity’s behavior. He wants her and believes he is half way in love with her though he condemns her actions and worries what Rigan might do to her. Mitch is also is a deeply pious person and needs his woman to love and cherish God above herself or her mate. He knows Charity does not and her recent behavior affirms his belief.
The second Julie Lessman early twentieth century “Daughters of Boston” passion historical romance (see A PASSION SO PURE) is a superb character driven inspirational tale. Charity owns the story line as she goes from Machiavellian plotter using people to a profound feeling of shame until she gains faith and with that new wisdom. However, she also understands regretfully her new understanding of God’s way may be too late for her when it comes to Mitch. A PASSION REDEEMED is a terific tale of redemption as a lost sheep finds conviction.
Harriet Klausner
Julie Lessman
Revell, Sep 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780800732127
In 1919 Dublin Charity O'Connor loves Mitch Dennehy, but he seems to ignore her. Desperate for him to reciprocate her feelings, she starts flirting with Mitch's enemy, black sheep Rigan Gallagher III, to make her beloved jealous and take notice of her.
Mitch is disturbed with Charity’s behavior. He wants her and believes he is half way in love with her though he condemns her actions and worries what Rigan might do to her. Mitch is also is a deeply pious person and needs his woman to love and cherish God above herself or her mate. He knows Charity does not and her recent behavior affirms his belief.
The second Julie Lessman early twentieth century “Daughters of Boston” passion historical romance (see A PASSION SO PURE) is a superb character driven inspirational tale. Charity owns the story line as she goes from Machiavellian plotter using people to a profound feeling of shame until she gains faith and with that new wisdom. However, she also understands regretfully her new understanding of God’s way may be too late for her when it comes to Mitch. A PASSION REDEEMED is a terific tale of redemption as a lost sheep finds conviction.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
A Gentleman's Offer-Dara Girard
A Gentleman's Offer
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
A Gentleman's Offer-Dara Girard
A Gentleman's Offer
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
A Gentleman's Offer-Dara Girard
A Gentleman's Offer
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
A Gentleman's Offer-Dara Girard
A Gentleman's Offer
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
A Gentleman's Offer-Dara Girard
A Gentleman's Offer
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
Dara Girard
Kimani Romance, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373860852
In Michigan pet stylist, some would say just another dog groomer, Yvette Coulier has always been good with animals. When it comes to people especially men she is a failure. She is a bit surprised when she receives a mysterious invitation from the Black Stockings Society as she assumes they are way above her social and financial circles.
Wealthy Nate Blackwell is tired of responsibility for others. He needs a time out from stress. When he meets Yvette in her black stockings at her grooming salon, he offers her a deal. She hires him and he will gain her entrance into high society and pay her tab. She agrees thinking life amidst the elite will be a vacation; he likewise believes life amidst the working class will be a vacation. As they fall in love, each knows that the return of reality will prove a cruel ending unless both of them reach out to the real other.
The second Black Stockings Society tale (see POWER PLAY) is a terific heated contemporary romance. The lead duet are fully developed with each struggling with stress while the support cast enables the audience to better understand what make Yvette and Nate tick. Readers will enjoy the revelations both attain to include love as she learns the rich and famous have their woes while he learns the working class has their woes too. Dara Girard provides a poignant character study that insists grass is green on both sides of the fence (except my lawn).
Harriet Klausner
The Wedding Heiress-Pamela Ford
The Wedding Heiress
Pamela Ford
Harlequin SuperRomance, Oct 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715213
In Holiday Bay, Wisconsin, attorney Mike Connery calls Delaney McBride in Boston to inform her that her beloved great aunt Ellie’s will is legally ironclad. She is unhappy with his calling her “Pumpkin” as she had a high school crush on him that remained unrequited. She agrees to come home partly out of homage to a relative she admired and loved and because she understands that for everyone to inherit including Mike, Delaney must come backto finish the Storybook Wedding plans that her late relative was working on.
In Holiday Bay, Delaney begins to complete her aunt’s final legacy with plans to return to Massachusetts once she is finished here because she still wants Mike and assumes he still does not reciprocate. However, Mike is attracted to her and will do what it takes to convince Delany to remain here working on their wedding plan.
The eccentric flawed cast makes for a delightful Wisconsin holiday romance starring two enchanting protagonists. The irony of the novel is Delaney is set on going back to Massachusetts because she has a life there and has doubts that Mike really loves her while he desperately wants to have her car’s oil and filters permanently changed in Holiday Bay. A mystery subplot re Aunt Ellie and her motives add to the enjoyment of a fine contemporary tale.
Harriet Klausner
Pamela Ford
Harlequin SuperRomance, Oct 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715213
In Holiday Bay, Wisconsin, attorney Mike Connery calls Delaney McBride in Boston to inform her that her beloved great aunt Ellie’s will is legally ironclad. She is unhappy with his calling her “Pumpkin” as she had a high school crush on him that remained unrequited. She agrees to come home partly out of homage to a relative she admired and loved and because she understands that for everyone to inherit including Mike, Delaney must come backto finish the Storybook Wedding plans that her late relative was working on.
In Holiday Bay, Delaney begins to complete her aunt’s final legacy with plans to return to Massachusetts once she is finished here because she still wants Mike and assumes he still does not reciprocate. However, Mike is attracted to her and will do what it takes to convince Delany to remain here working on their wedding plan.
The eccentric flawed cast makes for a delightful Wisconsin holiday romance starring two enchanting protagonists. The irony of the novel is Delaney is set on going back to Massachusetts because she has a life there and has doubts that Mike really loves her while he desperately wants to have her car’s oil and filters permanently changed in Holiday Bay. A mystery subplot re Aunt Ellie and her motives add to the enjoyment of a fine contemporary tale.
Harriet Klausner
Cop on Loan-Jeannie Watt
Cop on Loan
Jeannie Watt
Harlequin SuperRomance, Oct 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715206
Someone keeps unlocking the library every night so chief librarian sexagenarian Dorothy Murdock decides on a stakeout to catch the perpetrator. Library technician Jasmine Storm fails to persuade Dorothy to drop the surveillance so she accompanies her to try to keep her boss safe.
However neither library employee is prepared for what happens on their one night vigilance. They end up in the middle of a police operation to find proof that a home across from the library is a drug house. On loan from the big city, police detective Anthony DeMonte is furious especially with all the work his partner Yates did to pull off the maneuver ending with yelling at two librarians not to move; the bust was a bust. However, when strange things occur near Jasmine’s home, Anthony moves into her basement to keep her safe.
COP ON LOAN is a fun police procedural romance starring two warriors who start off wrong when he informs her that her name denotes stripper. Their relationship can only go up from there it would seem, but not with this pairing as she believes you can’t count on this cop. Readers will enjoy the gender battle between Jasmine and Anthony with a strong investigative subplot and sold secondary characters augmenting the wonderful romance.
Harriet Klausner
Jeannie Watt
Harlequin SuperRomance, Oct 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715206
Someone keeps unlocking the library every night so chief librarian sexagenarian Dorothy Murdock decides on a stakeout to catch the perpetrator. Library technician Jasmine Storm fails to persuade Dorothy to drop the surveillance so she accompanies her to try to keep her boss safe.
However neither library employee is prepared for what happens on their one night vigilance. They end up in the middle of a police operation to find proof that a home across from the library is a drug house. On loan from the big city, police detective Anthony DeMonte is furious especially with all the work his partner Yates did to pull off the maneuver ending with yelling at two librarians not to move; the bust was a bust. However, when strange things occur near Jasmine’s home, Anthony moves into her basement to keep her safe.
COP ON LOAN is a fun police procedural romance starring two warriors who start off wrong when he informs her that her name denotes stripper. Their relationship can only go up from there it would seem, but not with this pairing as she believes you can’t count on this cop. Readers will enjoy the gender battle between Jasmine and Anthony with a strong investigative subplot and sold secondary characters augmenting the wonderful romance.
Harriet Klausner
Finding Mr. Right- Helen Brenna
Finding Mr. Right
Helen Brenna
Harlequin SuperRomance, Oct 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715190
As much as it galls her, Maggie Dillon knows she needs specialized help to win a programming contract for her firm Universal Security with the Greek government. The independent American understands she requires a person with connections to the government and as important he or she must speak the language. Thus, Maggie searches for Mr. Right and soon hires native Californian Nick Ballos, whose paternal heritage is Greek to help her with the negotiations.
Nick has a personal secret agenda to return to Greece that he hides from his new employer. He sees assisting Maggie as his cover to conduct an inquiry into a homicide; as he is obsessed with justice for his late best friend Yanni whose murder in Greece remains unsolved. However, rather quickly Nick finds his obsession changing from justice for Yanni to love for Maggie.
FINDING MR. RIGHT is a superb contemporary romance starring two delightful upbeat lead characters. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Maggie realizes she needs help besides her two sisters and seeks Mr. Right for her firm not for her heart. The suspense subplot involving Yanni’s murder adds the right amount of spice to a super romance.
Harriet Klausner
Helen Brenna
Harlequin SuperRomance, Oct 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715190
As much as it galls her, Maggie Dillon knows she needs specialized help to win a programming contract for her firm Universal Security with the Greek government. The independent American understands she requires a person with connections to the government and as important he or she must speak the language. Thus, Maggie searches for Mr. Right and soon hires native Californian Nick Ballos, whose paternal heritage is Greek to help her with the negotiations.
Nick has a personal secret agenda to return to Greece that he hides from his new employer. He sees assisting Maggie as his cover to conduct an inquiry into a homicide; as he is obsessed with justice for his late best friend Yanni whose murder in Greece remains unsolved. However, rather quickly Nick finds his obsession changing from justice for Yanni to love for Maggie.
FINDING MR. RIGHT is a superb contemporary romance starring two delightful upbeat lead characters. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Maggie realizes she needs help besides her two sisters and seeks Mr. Right for her firm not for her heart. The suspense subplot involving Yanni’s murder adds the right amount of spice to a super romance.
Harriet Klausner
Good to the Last Bite-Crystal Green
Good to the Last Bite
Crystal Green
Harlequin Blaze, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794300
Near the University of Kentucky, Edward Marburn is outraged to be changed into a vampire, as he just wants to remain mortal. Ironically this is the second time he has been changed and knows how to revert back to human: kill the vamp who converted you.
Gisele knows Edward hunts and why he seeks her out. When she and her friend Sam seek their next meal, Edward manages to catch her away from her blood buddy. He plans to kill her, but is stunned by his attraction to her. When Sam frees Giselle and captures Edward, she persuades her friend not to kill their prisoner. Giselle is attracted to Edward and hopes to convince him life as a vampire can prove happy with the right partner.
This is a terific heated vampire romance with the lead male having the paradoxical dilemma of wanting to revert back to human, but to do so he must kill the vamp he loves. The story line is fast-paced, passionate and hot from the opening sequence to the GOOD TO THE LAST BITE. Supernatural romance readers will appreciate Crystal Green's strong tale of love amongst the over bite crowd.
Harriet Klausner
Crystal Green
Harlequin Blaze, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794300
Near the University of Kentucky, Edward Marburn is outraged to be changed into a vampire, as he just wants to remain mortal. Ironically this is the second time he has been changed and knows how to revert back to human: kill the vamp who converted you.
Gisele knows Edward hunts and why he seeks her out. When she and her friend Sam seek their next meal, Edward manages to catch her away from her blood buddy. He plans to kill her, but is stunned by his attraction to her. When Sam frees Giselle and captures Edward, she persuades her friend not to kill their prisoner. Giselle is attracted to Edward and hopes to convince him life as a vampire can prove happy with the right partner.
This is a terific heated vampire romance with the lead male having the paradoxical dilemma of wanting to revert back to human, but to do so he must kill the vamp he loves. The story line is fast-paced, passionate and hot from the opening sequence to the GOOD TO THE LAST BITE. Supernatural romance readers will appreciate Crystal Green's strong tale of love amongst the over bite crowd.
Harriet Klausner
Lethal Exposure-Lori Wilde
Lethal Exposure
Lori Wilde
Harlequin Blaze, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794270
In Austin, Texas, Confidential Rejuvenations Hospital hires public relations expert Sebastian Black to turn around the image of an out of control celebrity spa. Sebastian knows like much of the public that his new client has become infamous with a Mafia link, sex scandals, and killer staff (see THE WHITE STAR and THE MARTINE DARES).
At the spa Sebastian meets nurse Julie DeMarco, a good girl who has decided life is too short for any more relationship disappointments, so she plans to seek out short trysts. They are attracted to one another from the onset, but someone stalks them and has plans to further disrupt the hospital making more trouble for the facility.
The final Perfect Anatomy romantic suspense book is an exciting final tale that wraps up the overall mystery. The story line is action-packed from the moment Julie sends her naughty note to the commitment phobic PR super-stud and never slows down. Although the motive for wanting to harm the lead couple seems a bit weak even if Seb is the cavalry to the rescue, fans will enjoy the good girl turning bad at an importune moment when a stalker lurks in the shadows.
Harriet Klausner
Lori Wilde
Harlequin Blaze, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373794270
In Austin, Texas, Confidential Rejuvenations Hospital hires public relations expert Sebastian Black to turn around the image of an out of control celebrity spa. Sebastian knows like much of the public that his new client has become infamous with a Mafia link, sex scandals, and killer staff (see THE WHITE STAR and THE MARTINE DARES).
At the spa Sebastian meets nurse Julie DeMarco, a good girl who has decided life is too short for any more relationship disappointments, so she plans to seek out short trysts. They are attracted to one another from the onset, but someone stalks them and has plans to further disrupt the hospital making more trouble for the facility.
The final Perfect Anatomy romantic suspense book is an exciting final tale that wraps up the overall mystery. The story line is action-packed from the moment Julie sends her naughty note to the commitment phobic PR super-stud and never slows down. Although the motive for wanting to harm the lead couple seems a bit weak even if Seb is the cavalry to the rescue, fans will enjoy the good girl turning bad at an importune moment when a stalker lurks in the shadows.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, September 22, 2008
The Christmas Countess-Adrienne Basso
The Christmas Countess
Adrienne Basso
Zebra, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420104325
Instead of grieving her father’s death, Rebecca Tremaine is irate to discover the lie he perpetrated on her even if logically she knows he did it for her own good and that of her child. She thought her daughter died, but instead learns that the Earl of Hampton and his wife adopted her six years ago.
Widower Cameron Sinclair has loved his little Lily from the moment he first held her. He wants to tell Rebecca she can’t see her daughter because Lily comes first and he fears the harm the biological mother could do to his beloved spoiled daughter. However, he end up reluctantly agreeing.. To his shock, Rebecca brings an upbeat positive light to the household although she is concerned about Lily’s impish behavior; the child is a handful as she has her daddy wrapped around her tiny fingers. As she and Cameron fall in love, each believes this may prove the greatest Christmas of them all; but both understand Lily comes first.
This is an engaging historical holiday romance with an upbeat tone to the plot. The three prime players come across as genuine with the adults needing to move beyond their respective ghosts of Christmas past if they are to share the joys of Christmas future with the rascally matchmaking Lily.
Harriet Klausner
Adrienne Basso
Zebra, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420104325
Instead of grieving her father’s death, Rebecca Tremaine is irate to discover the lie he perpetrated on her even if logically she knows he did it for her own good and that of her child. She thought her daughter died, but instead learns that the Earl of Hampton and his wife adopted her six years ago.
Widower Cameron Sinclair has loved his little Lily from the moment he first held her. He wants to tell Rebecca she can’t see her daughter because Lily comes first and he fears the harm the biological mother could do to his beloved spoiled daughter. However, he end up reluctantly agreeing.. To his shock, Rebecca brings an upbeat positive light to the household although she is concerned about Lily’s impish behavior; the child is a handful as she has her daddy wrapped around her tiny fingers. As she and Cameron fall in love, each believes this may prove the greatest Christmas of them all; but both understand Lily comes first.
This is an engaging historical holiday romance with an upbeat tone to the plot. The three prime players come across as genuine with the adults needing to move beyond their respective ghosts of Christmas past if they are to share the joys of Christmas future with the rascally matchmaking Lily.
Harriet Klausner
Marry Christmas-Jane Goodger
Marry Christmas
Jane Goodger
Zebra, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420103786
In Newport, Rhode Island heiress Elizabeth Cummings is appalled with her socialite climbing mother. Her mom is pushing for her daughter to marry the Duke of Bellingham over Christmas. Elizabeth is resistant to wed a stranger just for his title especially since she loves someone else.
The Duke Randall Blackmore loathes the idea of marrying for money especially an American social climber. However, he needs her Yankee dollars so he agrees to wed Elizabeth. Her mother arranges for Elizabeth and Randall to meet. He is stunned by her beauty and intelligence and wants her as his wife even if she was a pauper. He must wean her off this rival so he starts a seduction in order to marry his beloved by the holiday season.
Although the theme of an arranged marriage has been used a zillion times especially with aristocratic England, Jane Goodger refreshes the concept with an engaging historical as the lead male knows he must convince his reluctant beloved they are a loving match in spite of an arrangement. The story line is a lighthearted frolic as Randall conspires with Elizabeth’s mom to marry her daughter by Christmas. Fans will enjoy his missteps starting with the selection of his ally to make a woman who says no his duchess.
Harriet Klausner
Jane Goodger
Zebra, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420103786
In Newport, Rhode Island heiress Elizabeth Cummings is appalled with her socialite climbing mother. Her mom is pushing for her daughter to marry the Duke of Bellingham over Christmas. Elizabeth is resistant to wed a stranger just for his title especially since she loves someone else.
The Duke Randall Blackmore loathes the idea of marrying for money especially an American social climber. However, he needs her Yankee dollars so he agrees to wed Elizabeth. Her mother arranges for Elizabeth and Randall to meet. He is stunned by her beauty and intelligence and wants her as his wife even if she was a pauper. He must wean her off this rival so he starts a seduction in order to marry his beloved by the holiday season.
Although the theme of an arranged marriage has been used a zillion times especially with aristocratic England, Jane Goodger refreshes the concept with an engaging historical as the lead male knows he must convince his reluctant beloved they are a loving match in spite of an arrangement. The story line is a lighthearted frolic as Randall conspires with Elizabeth’s mom to marry her daughter by Christmas. Fans will enjoy his missteps starting with the selection of his ally to make a woman who says no his duchess.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, September 21, 2008
A Knight Well Spent-Jackie Ivie
A Knight Well Spent
Jackie Ivie
Zebra, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9781420101652
In 1141, King David continues with his plan to unite the Scots, Picts and Normans under his rule. He especially needs a strong supporter to deal with the outrageous Highland clans. Thus he bestows on his favorite Norman knightly vassal Rhoenne Guy de Ramhurst a special gift, a fiefdom in the middle of the Highlanders who simply loath Normans. Rhoenne assumes he must have fallen out of favor to be gifted with this herculean task and a betrothal by his highness to David’s daughter when he does not want to marry anyone.
His greeting to his new home is an arrow in the leg that leaves him fevered. The Lady of the Brook finds and heals him, but she vanishes afterward into the woods. At the castle, his so called allies are loyal to his half-brother Sir Harold and want Rhoenne to leave or die. However, it is Aisling the healer he wants, but she is his greatest challenge.
Readers will believe they are in the middle of the twelfth century amidst the feuding Highland clans (and the two siblings) as Jackie Ivie provides a vivid picture of the era. The story line is filled with action from the healing onset and never slows down yet the cast is solid and there is plenty of wry humor; especially the asides that bring the unique freshness to the historical. KNIGHT WELL SPENT is a night (or two) well spent reading.
Harriet Klausner
Jackie Ivie
Zebra, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9781420101652
In 1141, King David continues with his plan to unite the Scots, Picts and Normans under his rule. He especially needs a strong supporter to deal with the outrageous Highland clans. Thus he bestows on his favorite Norman knightly vassal Rhoenne Guy de Ramhurst a special gift, a fiefdom in the middle of the Highlanders who simply loath Normans. Rhoenne assumes he must have fallen out of favor to be gifted with this herculean task and a betrothal by his highness to David’s daughter when he does not want to marry anyone.
His greeting to his new home is an arrow in the leg that leaves him fevered. The Lady of the Brook finds and heals him, but she vanishes afterward into the woods. At the castle, his so called allies are loyal to his half-brother Sir Harold and want Rhoenne to leave or die. However, it is Aisling the healer he wants, but she is his greatest challenge.
Readers will believe they are in the middle of the twelfth century amidst the feuding Highland clans (and the two siblings) as Jackie Ivie provides a vivid picture of the era. The story line is filled with action from the healing onset and never slows down yet the cast is solid and there is plenty of wry humor; especially the asides that bring the unique freshness to the historical. KNIGHT WELL SPENT is a night (or two) well spent reading.
Harriet Klausner
Veiled Passions-Tracy MacNish
Veiled Passions
Tracy MacNish
Zebra, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9781420101690
In 1777 in Venice at the insistence of her worried brother Rogan, she thinks back to her carefree London life that ended three years ago. Since the incident that she refuses to speak of even to her beloved brother, Kieran Mullin lives in self imposed exile. She only occasionally comes out of her “prison” to attend costumed events.
At Carnivale she sees the person who destroyed her life three years ago; he notices her too and reacts. He pushes her into a canal. Hedonistic rake Matteo de Gama rescues the drowning Kieran. He offers to help her enact vengeance and she accepts. When they go to England, her sibling allows Matteo to stay with them because he knows the musician has brought some light into the life of his sister; he is unaware she has brought light into his music.
This is an exciting late eighteenth century historical romance with a touch of intermittent suspense that enhances the fine tale. Kieran is a fascinating lead character as she unsuccessfully struggles to cope with the nightmare she witnessed and keeps seeing in her mind. Matteo is an interesting multifaceted individual as a musician-philosopher who loves the cards and the women. Fans will enjoy Tracy MacNish’s fine Georgian tale of love.
Harriet Klausner
Tracy MacNish
Zebra, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9781420101690
In 1777 in Venice at the insistence of her worried brother Rogan, she thinks back to her carefree London life that ended three years ago. Since the incident that she refuses to speak of even to her beloved brother, Kieran Mullin lives in self imposed exile. She only occasionally comes out of her “prison” to attend costumed events.
At Carnivale she sees the person who destroyed her life three years ago; he notices her too and reacts. He pushes her into a canal. Hedonistic rake Matteo de Gama rescues the drowning Kieran. He offers to help her enact vengeance and she accepts. When they go to England, her sibling allows Matteo to stay with them because he knows the musician has brought some light into the life of his sister; he is unaware she has brought light into his music.
This is an exciting late eighteenth century historical romance with a touch of intermittent suspense that enhances the fine tale. Kieran is a fascinating lead character as she unsuccessfully struggles to cope with the nightmare she witnessed and keeps seeing in her mind. Matteo is an interesting multifaceted individual as a musician-philosopher who loves the cards and the women. Fans will enjoy Tracy MacNish’s fine Georgian tale of love.
Harriet Klausner
Kiss of a Dark Moon-Shari Kohler
Kiss of a Dark Moon
Shari Kohler
Pocket, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416542285
Kit March is a successful Lycanthropic hunter. However her skills make her and her brother Gideon many enemies amidst the Lycan community. Especially wanting her dead are the leaders of the NODEAL (National Organization Against Ancient and Evolving Lycanthropes) reject the concept of a female hunter even one as dedicated as Kit is and that of rogue hunters like the March siblings, dedicated since Lycans killed their parents.
EFLA (European Federation of Lycan Agents) are taking over NODEAL in a merger of the two groups. However, to complete the negotiations NODEAL demands EFLA kill the March duet. EFLA sends top operative Rafe Santiago to eliminate Kit and Gideon; he knows his mission is no mercy, but Rafe finds himself in trouble as Kit somehow steals his heart and he cannot prevent himself from saving her life. This confuses the female huntress. However he has a bigger secret agenda than the merger involving the blood line of his beloved.
The second Shari Kohler Lycanthrope hunter romance (see MARKED BY MOONLIGHT) is a terific paranormal thriller that grips the audience from the first time Rafe saves Kit’s life and never slows down as his behavior bewilders her, fans, and himself when he insists on no mercy. The story line is driven by this coupling as they appear to be star-crossed. Although Kit’s competency seems a bit weak, readers will marvel at the revelations that set up future entries in the Kohler mythos yet also provide a delightful stand alone tale.
Harriet Klausner
Shari Kohler
Pocket, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9781416542285
Kit March is a successful Lycanthropic hunter. However her skills make her and her brother Gideon many enemies amidst the Lycan community. Especially wanting her dead are the leaders of the NODEAL (National Organization Against Ancient and Evolving Lycanthropes) reject the concept of a female hunter even one as dedicated as Kit is and that of rogue hunters like the March siblings, dedicated since Lycans killed their parents.
EFLA (European Federation of Lycan Agents) are taking over NODEAL in a merger of the two groups. However, to complete the negotiations NODEAL demands EFLA kill the March duet. EFLA sends top operative Rafe Santiago to eliminate Kit and Gideon; he knows his mission is no mercy, but Rafe finds himself in trouble as Kit somehow steals his heart and he cannot prevent himself from saving her life. This confuses the female huntress. However he has a bigger secret agenda than the merger involving the blood line of his beloved.
The second Shari Kohler Lycanthrope hunter romance (see MARKED BY MOONLIGHT) is a terific paranormal thriller that grips the audience from the first time Rafe saves Kit’s life and never slows down as his behavior bewilders her, fans, and himself when he insists on no mercy. The story line is driven by this coupling as they appear to be star-crossed. Although Kit’s competency seems a bit weak, readers will marvel at the revelations that set up future entries in the Kohler mythos yet also provide a delightful stand alone tale.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Red-Jordan Summers
Red
Jordan Summers
Tor, Nov 2008
ISBN: 0765359146
In 2160, the world has become a global environmental disaster. In that pandemic landscape the United States of America has broken into independent republics with only one inter-regional governmental entity linking these new nations, the International Police Tactical Team (IPTT) serve as cops and peacekeepers between the regions.
IPTT peacekeeper Gina "Red" Santiago investigates a particularly ferociously violent homicide until her superiors close the case based on murder by an animal. Red disagrees as she has clues to show some sort of super human did the brutal deed. Her clues lead her to Nuria, Republic of Arizona where she finds the residents behaving guardedly friendly towards her. Especially amiable yet wary is Sheriff Morgan Hunter who acts attracted to her while also wanting her to stop her inquiry. Red is stunned because she wants the sheriff too. As uncovers the truth about the residents of Nuria and her desire for the alpha Morgan she knows the serial killer she tracks is closing in on her.
This opening of what appears will be a powerful paranormal romantic police procedural series sets a forlorn futuristic world as Jordan Summers paints a dying planet. That is needed to establish reality especially with paranormal elements combined with a post apocalyptic America. However this also slows down the investigation and romance, the twin plot engines that run the tale. The lead couple is a delightful pairing of two kick butt heroes while the first hand account of the psychopath killer requires a warning label of not to read this tale on a full stomach. Fans will enjoy RED as the cop and the sheriff battle each other for supremacy in their relationship and team up to end a serial killer’s reign of terror.
Jordan Summers
Tor, Nov 2008
ISBN: 0765359146
In 2160, the world has become a global environmental disaster. In that pandemic landscape the United States of America has broken into independent republics with only one inter-regional governmental entity linking these new nations, the International Police Tactical Team (IPTT) serve as cops and peacekeepers between the regions.
IPTT peacekeeper Gina "Red" Santiago investigates a particularly ferociously violent homicide until her superiors close the case based on murder by an animal. Red disagrees as she has clues to show some sort of super human did the brutal deed. Her clues lead her to Nuria, Republic of Arizona where she finds the residents behaving guardedly friendly towards her. Especially amiable yet wary is Sheriff Morgan Hunter who acts attracted to her while also wanting her to stop her inquiry. Red is stunned because she wants the sheriff too. As uncovers the truth about the residents of Nuria and her desire for the alpha Morgan she knows the serial killer she tracks is closing in on her.
This opening of what appears will be a powerful paranormal romantic police procedural series sets a forlorn futuristic world as Jordan Summers paints a dying planet. That is needed to establish reality especially with paranormal elements combined with a post apocalyptic America. However this also slows down the investigation and romance, the twin plot engines that run the tale. The lead couple is a delightful pairing of two kick butt heroes while the first hand account of the psychopath killer requires a warning label of not to read this tale on a full stomach. Fans will enjoy RED as the cop and the sheriff battle each other for supremacy in their relationship and team up to end a serial killer’s reign of terror.
Friday, September 19, 2008
The Captive Heart-Bertrice Small
The Captive Heart
Bertrice Small
NAL, Oct 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780451225023
In 1461 the war seems to impact everyone even the court of King Henry VI and Queen Margaret. With her dad the royal physician to the queen dying, Alix Givet needs a home for herself and her father Alexander. Margaret arranges for her to marry an abusive Northumbrian aristocrat, Hayle Wattison, son of a baron.
With the death of her beloved dad, Alix considers running away from her odious brutish husband. She feels euphorically free when the beast kills himself. That lasts a nanosecond as her father-in-law informs her he will marry her. Rather than being wed to another abuser, Alix flees on foot heading towards wintry Scotland. Laird Malcolm Scott saves her life and though he vowed never to marry after his wife betrayed him, they fall in love and wed. However, her former father-in-law is coming to claim his bride.
This heated fifteenth century historical romance emits enough steam to melt the snow that nearly kills the courageous heroine. Die hard fans of Bertrice Small will enjoy the torrid romance between Malcolm and Alix. However, other readers need to consider the extremes of the prime cast; whereas the led duet is 100% good and honorable, the psychopathic baron is 200 proof amoral evil.
Harriet Klausner
Bertrice Small
NAL, Oct 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780451225023
In 1461 the war seems to impact everyone even the court of King Henry VI and Queen Margaret. With her dad the royal physician to the queen dying, Alix Givet needs a home for herself and her father Alexander. Margaret arranges for her to marry an abusive Northumbrian aristocrat, Hayle Wattison, son of a baron.
With the death of her beloved dad, Alix considers running away from her odious brutish husband. She feels euphorically free when the beast kills himself. That lasts a nanosecond as her father-in-law informs her he will marry her. Rather than being wed to another abuser, Alix flees on foot heading towards wintry Scotland. Laird Malcolm Scott saves her life and though he vowed never to marry after his wife betrayed him, they fall in love and wed. However, her former father-in-law is coming to claim his bride.
This heated fifteenth century historical romance emits enough steam to melt the snow that nearly kills the courageous heroine. Die hard fans of Bertrice Small will enjoy the torrid romance between Malcolm and Alix. However, other readers need to consider the extremes of the prime cast; whereas the led duet is 100% good and honorable, the psychopathic baron is 200 proof amoral evil.
Harriet Klausner
Ravish-Cathy Yardley
Ravish
Cathy Yardley
Avon, Sep 23 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061376085
Her parents overly protected Aurora Jacquard, but the twenty-one year old college student goes with her boy friend of four months Oliver to a Caribbean island where she plans to give him her virginity. In the middle of the sexual act, she suddenly falls into a deep coma.
Over the next few years, doctors have tried to awaken “Sleeping Beauty” with no success; none can fathom the cause. Aurora’s mom keeps searching while her dad has tuned bitter and angry. The latest expert to arrive is neurologist Dr. Jacob White. However, he is surprised when she enters his dreams; he is stunned when Carrie the night nurse wakes him because Rory’s brain monitor displayed new patterns for the first time since the coma began; finally he is shocked when they make love in his dreams. Jacob begins to believe that when he sleeps he enters a place where Rory is somehow locked away. As the cold scientist falls in love with his courageous patient, he knows he is out of his venue. He needs the help of his brother’s former girlfriend, an NYU professor who practices voodoo if he is to awaken his Sleeping Beauty.
After modernizing Snow White (see CRAVE), Cathy Yardley does likewise to the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. This time a voodoo queen plays the evil role and Jacob the neurologist plays the part of Prince Charming. Jacob’s brother a psychiatrist adds to the sense of RAVISH occurring in New York. Ms. Yardley provides a contemporary adult version of the classic.
Harriet Klausner
Cathy Yardley
Avon, Sep 23 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061376085
Her parents overly protected Aurora Jacquard, but the twenty-one year old college student goes with her boy friend of four months Oliver to a Caribbean island where she plans to give him her virginity. In the middle of the sexual act, she suddenly falls into a deep coma.
Over the next few years, doctors have tried to awaken “Sleeping Beauty” with no success; none can fathom the cause. Aurora’s mom keeps searching while her dad has tuned bitter and angry. The latest expert to arrive is neurologist Dr. Jacob White. However, he is surprised when she enters his dreams; he is stunned when Carrie the night nurse wakes him because Rory’s brain monitor displayed new patterns for the first time since the coma began; finally he is shocked when they make love in his dreams. Jacob begins to believe that when he sleeps he enters a place where Rory is somehow locked away. As the cold scientist falls in love with his courageous patient, he knows he is out of his venue. He needs the help of his brother’s former girlfriend, an NYU professor who practices voodoo if he is to awaken his Sleeping Beauty.
After modernizing Snow White (see CRAVE), Cathy Yardley does likewise to the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. This time a voodoo queen plays the evil role and Jacob the neurologist plays the part of Prince Charming. Jacob’s brother a psychiatrist adds to the sense of RAVISH occurring in New York. Ms. Yardley provides a contemporary adult version of the classic.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
To All a Good Night-Donna Kauffman, Jill Shalvis and Helen Kay Dimon
To All a Good Night
Donna Kauffman, Jill Shalvis and Helen Kay Dimon
Kensington Brava, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 075822849X
“Unleashed” by Donna Kauffman. Through her best friend who works in the personnel department of Hamilton Conglomerates, Emma Lafferty is hired to house sit and pet sit for the firm’s CEO billionaire Lionel Hamilton. At his vast Randolph County estate, his great-nephew Trevor arrives. Trevor wants Emma to leave as he searches for something; while Emma wants Trevor to leave because she does not trust him. As they warily watch one another an attraction ignites.
“Finding Mr. Right” by Jill Shalvis. Data Tech lead chemist Maggie Bell is working on a skin cancer cure, but laments about how she only dates wrong Mr. Rights. Her sister tells her to drop the brainy and go for the brawny like contractor Jacob Wheeler whom she tutored in high school. He is attracted to the trivia queen, who tests lotions and other items given to her by the twins running the firm.
“Can You Hand Me the Tape? by Helen Kay Dimon. After Natalie Pritchard broke up with Charles Adams, she hates asking his legal partner Spencer Donovan for a favor. She wants him to “steal” a tape that Charles has of her naked. Spencer who is ending his partnership with obnoxious Charles reluctantly agrees.
These are three fun contemporary romances in which the lead female falls in love with someone whom they assume could never love them back; the hunks prove them wrong.
Harriet Klausner
Donna Kauffman, Jill Shalvis and Helen Kay Dimon
Kensington Brava, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 075822849X
“Unleashed” by Donna Kauffman. Through her best friend who works in the personnel department of Hamilton Conglomerates, Emma Lafferty is hired to house sit and pet sit for the firm’s CEO billionaire Lionel Hamilton. At his vast Randolph County estate, his great-nephew Trevor arrives. Trevor wants Emma to leave as he searches for something; while Emma wants Trevor to leave because she does not trust him. As they warily watch one another an attraction ignites.
“Finding Mr. Right” by Jill Shalvis. Data Tech lead chemist Maggie Bell is working on a skin cancer cure, but laments about how she only dates wrong Mr. Rights. Her sister tells her to drop the brainy and go for the brawny like contractor Jacob Wheeler whom she tutored in high school. He is attracted to the trivia queen, who tests lotions and other items given to her by the twins running the firm.
“Can You Hand Me the Tape? by Helen Kay Dimon. After Natalie Pritchard broke up with Charles Adams, she hates asking his legal partner Spencer Donovan for a favor. She wants him to “steal” a tape that Charles has of her naked. Spencer who is ending his partnership with obnoxious Charles reluctantly agrees.
These are three fun contemporary romances in which the lead female falls in love with someone whom they assume could never love them back; the hunks prove them wrong.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Christmas at Sea Pines Cottage-Sally Smith O'Rourke
Christmas at Sea Pines Cottage
Sally Smith O'Rourke
Kensington, Oct 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 0758222602
Wannabe writer Robert needs to escape from everyone so he accepts work as lighthouse keeper at Cape Fear. The job is suited to the solitary life he desires that he prays enables him to escape his nightmares and start writing. He selects Meteor, a puppy from Sam’s kennel; Sam is pleased to rid himself of the canine who shows no inclination towards hunting.
The duo becomes companions and best friends. When Robert rescues Laura, she is grateful, but also determined to help him overcome his emotional issues. He wants her to leave while Meteor the matchmaker knows she is perfect for both of them.
CHRISTMAS AT SEA PINES COTTAGE is a tender warm holiday romance with the uniqueness being Meteor tells the tale from his viewpoint; totally stealing the novel from his human pets. Though the plot might seem thin and is relatively short, this fits appropriately as the book is a simple love story, complicated by the two humans. Character driven by the fully developed trio, fans will relish this inspiring tale of love (to include Meteor); the late Mike O'Rourke will be proud of this story.
Harriet Klausner
Sally Smith O'Rourke
Kensington, Oct 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 0758222602
Wannabe writer Robert needs to escape from everyone so he accepts work as lighthouse keeper at Cape Fear. The job is suited to the solitary life he desires that he prays enables him to escape his nightmares and start writing. He selects Meteor, a puppy from Sam’s kennel; Sam is pleased to rid himself of the canine who shows no inclination towards hunting.
The duo becomes companions and best friends. When Robert rescues Laura, she is grateful, but also determined to help him overcome his emotional issues. He wants her to leave while Meteor the matchmaker knows she is perfect for both of them.
CHRISTMAS AT SEA PINES COTTAGE is a tender warm holiday romance with the uniqueness being Meteor tells the tale from his viewpoint; totally stealing the novel from his human pets. Though the plot might seem thin and is relatively short, this fits appropriately as the book is a simple love story, complicated by the two humans. Character driven by the fully developed trio, fans will relish this inspiring tale of love (to include Meteor); the late Mike O'Rourke will be proud of this story.
Harriet Klausner
The Magic of Christmas-Carolyn Davidson, Victoria Bylin and Cheryl St. John's
The Magic of Christmas
Carolyn Davidson, Victoria Bylin and Cheryl St. John's
Harlequin, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373295159
"A Christmas Child" by Carolyn Davidson. With no options since her parents died, Marianne Winters decides to leave her infant brother in the church manger as she figures someone will come along shortly to care for him. Instead, Preacher David McDermott catches her as she sadly leaves. He hires her to care for his home. Love blossoms as he knows God works in mysterious ways.
"The Christmas Dove" by Victoria Bylin. After being away forever, Maddie Cutler returns home with a newborn hiding in the barn. Her first teen crush Dylan McCall, whom she ignored as a bad boy finds her there cold and cute as he hopes this Christmas his wish comes true.
"A Blue Baby Christmas by Cheryl St. John's. The livery owner widower Turner Price finds Gabby snooping around and assumes she is the mother of deserted twins. Having lost a wife and an infant to death, he is intolerant about caring for kids and demands she take care of her children; although Gabby is not their mom she tries her best. With two mischievous matchmakers, Gabby and Turner fall in love.
With babies starring as matchmaking imps, fans will enjoy these three gentle sweet second chances at love historical romances.
Harriet Klausner
Carolyn Davidson, Victoria Bylin and Cheryl St. John's
Harlequin, Oct 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373295159
"A Christmas Child" by Carolyn Davidson. With no options since her parents died, Marianne Winters decides to leave her infant brother in the church manger as she figures someone will come along shortly to care for him. Instead, Preacher David McDermott catches her as she sadly leaves. He hires her to care for his home. Love blossoms as he knows God works in mysterious ways.
"The Christmas Dove" by Victoria Bylin. After being away forever, Maddie Cutler returns home with a newborn hiding in the barn. Her first teen crush Dylan McCall, whom she ignored as a bad boy finds her there cold and cute as he hopes this Christmas his wish comes true.
"A Blue Baby Christmas by Cheryl St. John's. The livery owner widower Turner Price finds Gabby snooping around and assumes she is the mother of deserted twins. Having lost a wife and an infant to death, he is intolerant about caring for kids and demands she take care of her children; although Gabby is not their mom she tries her best. With two mischievous matchmakers, Gabby and Turner fall in love.
With babies starring as matchmaking imps, fans will enjoy these three gentle sweet second chances at love historical romances.
Harriet Klausner
As Luck Would Have It-Alissa Johnson
As Luck Would Have It
Alissa Johnson
Leisure, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0843961554
After years of traveling the world with her father, Miss Sophie Everton returns home to England. However, she is stunned when she learns she and her family are broke; her cousin embezzled their fortune. Desperately in need of money and perhaps even a husband, she accepts an assignment from the Prince Regent to spy on selected aristocrats.
Undercover agent the Duke of Rockeforte Alexander is assigned to keep an eye on Sophie. When her carriage crashes, he gets her to safety. In his mind the tedious undercover assignment looks good as Sophie is beautiful and proves intelligent. However, he becomes concerned for her when a series of accidents occur involving her; he marvels how she seems to always survive. As she decides to spy and find a spouse, Alex decides he is the one for her as she is to him. Traitors target both of them before they can discover who betrays England.
This is an exhilarating Regency espionage romantic suspense with plenty of humor to enhance the fun story line. The heroine is terific from the moment she comes home to London to ponder why she did until Prinny assigns her with her latest adventure. Alex is terific as he goes from detesting the mission of spying on an inane aristocratic deb to believing this is destiny. Fans will enjoy this exciting historical as spy meets and falls in love with spy.
Harriet Klausner
Alissa Johnson
Leisure, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0843961554
After years of traveling the world with her father, Miss Sophie Everton returns home to England. However, she is stunned when she learns she and her family are broke; her cousin embezzled their fortune. Desperately in need of money and perhaps even a husband, she accepts an assignment from the Prince Regent to spy on selected aristocrats.
Undercover agent the Duke of Rockeforte Alexander is assigned to keep an eye on Sophie. When her carriage crashes, he gets her to safety. In his mind the tedious undercover assignment looks good as Sophie is beautiful and proves intelligent. However, he becomes concerned for her when a series of accidents occur involving her; he marvels how she seems to always survive. As she decides to spy and find a spouse, Alex decides he is the one for her as she is to him. Traitors target both of them before they can discover who betrays England.
This is an exhilarating Regency espionage romantic suspense with plenty of humor to enhance the fun story line. The heroine is terific from the moment she comes home to London to ponder why she did until Prinny assigns her with her latest adventure. Alex is terific as he goes from detesting the mission of spying on an inane aristocratic deb to believing this is destiny. Fans will enjoy this exciting historical as spy meets and falls in love with spy.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, September 15, 2008
Finally a Bride-Lisa Childs
Finally a Bride
Lisa Childs
Harlequin American, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752348
Since second grade in Cloverville, Michigan Eric South has loved his best friend Molly McClintock; he even proposed back in elementary school. Years later after he served as a military medic, they are still friends in Grand Rapids. So when she informs him she is engaged to Dr. Josh Towers, he becomes depressed as he feels more wounded than the injuries he took in combat. He receives the invitation to her wedding, but decides not to go because it will feel like he is attending a wake, his.
Stunning no one perhaps not even the groom, Molly jilts him; fleeing from her wedding to spend time with Eric. Over the next week they talk about their deepest feelings for the other, as each pronounces their love for the other; but is love enough to take a chance on ruining a perfect friendship.
The last woman standing single in Lisa Childs' "The Wedding Party" series (see FOREVER HIS BRIDE and THE BEST MAN'S BRIDE), Molly almost marries for the sake of joining her pals in matrimony. However, she shows grit and courage when she decides to take a chance on love. Josh is not an evil person so breaking his heart is not easy especially when she does it by climbing through a church window. Still fans will root for her to marry for love not for just becoming FINALLY A BRIDE.
Harriet Klausner
Lisa Childs
Harlequin American, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752348
Since second grade in Cloverville, Michigan Eric South has loved his best friend Molly McClintock; he even proposed back in elementary school. Years later after he served as a military medic, they are still friends in Grand Rapids. So when she informs him she is engaged to Dr. Josh Towers, he becomes depressed as he feels more wounded than the injuries he took in combat. He receives the invitation to her wedding, but decides not to go because it will feel like he is attending a wake, his.
Stunning no one perhaps not even the groom, Molly jilts him; fleeing from her wedding to spend time with Eric. Over the next week they talk about their deepest feelings for the other, as each pronounces their love for the other; but is love enough to take a chance on ruining a perfect friendship.
The last woman standing single in Lisa Childs' "The Wedding Party" series (see FOREVER HIS BRIDE and THE BEST MAN'S BRIDE), Molly almost marries for the sake of joining her pals in matrimony. However, she shows grit and courage when she decides to take a chance on love. Josh is not an evil person so breaking his heart is not easy especially when she does it by climbing through a church window. Still fans will root for her to marry for love not for just becoming FINALLY A BRIDE.
Harriet Klausner
Once Upon a Thanksgiving-Holly Jacobs
Once Upon a Thanksgiving
Holly Jacobs
Harlequin American, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752362
Recently obtaining a divorce as her husband left her and the kids, Samantha Williams raises four school age children (Stan, Seton, Shane and Stella) and a cat. All her children attend the same school, Erie Elementary. Harry Remington is the newly installed interim principal who will leave in December.
Sami and Harry were childhood friends especially in seventh grade and insist they remain just pals. Al though they are attracted to one another neither accepts that truism at least deep in their respective hearts. The entire town led by her “S” kids and the PTA whose motto is volunteer or be volunteered know otherwise also especially since he is so at home at her rambunctious abode where chaos is the norm. However, he is also leaving soon although the thought depresses him.
Few writers can combine humor inside a serious issue as well as Holly Jacobs consistently does. The three male banditos bring plenty of amusement with their antics (as long as you are not their victim), but also much angst as the audience obtains a deep look at divorce from the perspective of the elementary school age offspring. The romance is fun to follow as Sami and Harry sing the refrain from I’m Not in Love, but everyone know otherwise.
Harriet Klausner
Holly Jacobs
Harlequin American, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752362
Recently obtaining a divorce as her husband left her and the kids, Samantha Williams raises four school age children (Stan, Seton, Shane and Stella) and a cat. All her children attend the same school, Erie Elementary. Harry Remington is the newly installed interim principal who will leave in December.
Sami and Harry were childhood friends especially in seventh grade and insist they remain just pals. Al though they are attracted to one another neither accepts that truism at least deep in their respective hearts. The entire town led by her “S” kids and the PTA whose motto is volunteer or be volunteered know otherwise also especially since he is so at home at her rambunctious abode where chaos is the norm. However, he is also leaving soon although the thought depresses him.
Few writers can combine humor inside a serious issue as well as Holly Jacobs consistently does. The three male banditos bring plenty of amusement with their antics (as long as you are not their victim), but also much angst as the audience obtains a deep look at divorce from the perspective of the elementary school age offspring. The romance is fun to follow as Sami and Harry sing the refrain from I’m Not in Love, but everyone know otherwise.
Harriet Klausner
A Constant Heart- Siri Mitchell
A Constant Heart
Siri Mitchell
Bethany House, Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780764204319
In the last decade of the sixteenth century, the Earl of Lytham trusts no woman especially a beautiful aristocrat. His heart was burned to an ashy crisp by the betrayal of his first wife. He obtained an annulment that ended the sham called marriage. He will remarry only to gain favor with the Queen who prefers her lords married.
Lytham’s second wife Marget Barnardsen has been told she is a beauty, but to her chagrin her husband loathes her because of her looks. He coldly informs his wife her only role is to assist him in gaining her Highness’ support. Marget in turn wants him to return her love, but her efforts to warm his heart fail as Queen Elizabeth is irate at her; seemingly because of her looks that she tried to somewhat disguise. Now a desperate Marget fears the man she loves will annul their marriage as she only obtained the wrath of the Queen.
This is a terific Elizabethan romance with a deep message of “to thine own self be true” as everyone is in God’s image. The story line shines a deep light on the aristocracy’s efforts to gain favor with the somewhat fickle but powerful aging ruler; some go so far as changing their essence as Marget does. Known for her exciting contemporary Christian Lit, Siri Mitchell goes historical Christian Lit showing she is a writer for all seasons.
Harriet Klausner
Siri Mitchell
Bethany House, Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 9780764204319
In the last decade of the sixteenth century, the Earl of Lytham trusts no woman especially a beautiful aristocrat. His heart was burned to an ashy crisp by the betrayal of his first wife. He obtained an annulment that ended the sham called marriage. He will remarry only to gain favor with the Queen who prefers her lords married.
Lytham’s second wife Marget Barnardsen has been told she is a beauty, but to her chagrin her husband loathes her because of her looks. He coldly informs his wife her only role is to assist him in gaining her Highness’ support. Marget in turn wants him to return her love, but her efforts to warm his heart fail as Queen Elizabeth is irate at her; seemingly because of her looks that she tried to somewhat disguise. Now a desperate Marget fears the man she loves will annul their marriage as she only obtained the wrath of the Queen.
This is a terific Elizabethan romance with a deep message of “to thine own self be true” as everyone is in God’s image. The story line shines a deep light on the aristocracy’s efforts to gain favor with the somewhat fickle but powerful aging ruler; some go so far as changing their essence as Marget does. Known for her exciting contemporary Christian Lit, Siri Mitchell goes historical Christian Lit showing she is a writer for all seasons.
Harriet Klausner
Addicted to Love- Lori Wilde
Addicted to Love
Lori Wilde
Forever, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0446502049
Jilted for the second time, frustrated bride-not Rachael Henderson disfigures the Valentine, Texas billboard as happily ever after is a fairytale. Her first crush Iraq War veteran turned town Sheriff Brody Carlton arrests her for defacing public property.
The court gives Rachel community service; while she sentences herself to find a way to no longer be a losing inane romantic. Thus she sets up an Internet site for Romanceaholics Anonymous so they can save each other from the addicted destruction of romanticism. The townsfolk are irate; at least the Austen crowd and those who sell the concept of romance in Valentine; although some cynics toast their new heroine. Bobby, who lost a leg in Iraq, thinks the woman he is falling in love with is overreacting to the rejections; as he believes she has not found the right groom until now. The problem is her web help network makes romance seem negative.
The latest charming “Wedding Veil Wishes” is an amusing tale focusing on recognizing what love is and with whom. The story line is lighthearted fun as Rachel receives an education of the heart. Recipients from the previous “Wedding Veil Wishes” romances return and the Wilde trademark of strong secondary romances enhance an engaging Valentine tale.
Harriet Klausner
Lori Wilde
Forever, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0446502049
Jilted for the second time, frustrated bride-not Rachael Henderson disfigures the Valentine, Texas billboard as happily ever after is a fairytale. Her first crush Iraq War veteran turned town Sheriff Brody Carlton arrests her for defacing public property.
The court gives Rachel community service; while she sentences herself to find a way to no longer be a losing inane romantic. Thus she sets up an Internet site for Romanceaholics Anonymous so they can save each other from the addicted destruction of romanticism. The townsfolk are irate; at least the Austen crowd and those who sell the concept of romance in Valentine; although some cynics toast their new heroine. Bobby, who lost a leg in Iraq, thinks the woman he is falling in love with is overreacting to the rejections; as he believes she has not found the right groom until now. The problem is her web help network makes romance seem negative.
The latest charming “Wedding Veil Wishes” is an amusing tale focusing on recognizing what love is and with whom. The story line is lighthearted fun as Rachel receives an education of the heart. Recipients from the previous “Wedding Veil Wishes” romances return and the Wilde trademark of strong secondary romances enhance an engaging Valentine tale.
Harriet Klausner
Intimate Beings-Jessica Inclan
Intimate Beings
Jessica Inclan
Zebra, Oct 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 1420101145
San Francisco kindergarten teacher Claire Edwards has always felt like the outsider, but lately that depressing feeling has been overwhelming. Her job is boring her and the dates she does have are even more tedious. Her only fun is renting films from Netflix. However, the dreams are what scare her; as how many adults sleep with a spaceship in their head.
Darl James has felt the same way about his life as has Claire. However, he knows why as he has learned they are not of this earth. Darl seeks his soulmate Claire because together their special skills enhanced by love make them a formidable force. Claire can think herself to any place while Darl can think himself home from anyplace. When they meet, each feels whole for the first time and soon seek other hidden aliens, but instead find themselves trapped in a galaxy war as a bellicose race that destroyed their home planet focuses on earth.
This is a fun science fiction romance that ironically even with the potential destruction of the earth and the already annihilation of other planets and species is a lighthearted romp. The story line is faster than a speeding space ship, but never goes deep into any of the alien races. Still Jessica Inclan provides an engaging try to save the world by alien residents (without green cards) especially the heroine who leaves behind the crayon drawings of kindergarten artists.
Harriet Klausner
Jessica Inclan
Zebra, Oct 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 1420101145
San Francisco kindergarten teacher Claire Edwards has always felt like the outsider, but lately that depressing feeling has been overwhelming. Her job is boring her and the dates she does have are even more tedious. Her only fun is renting films from Netflix. However, the dreams are what scare her; as how many adults sleep with a spaceship in their head.
Darl James has felt the same way about his life as has Claire. However, he knows why as he has learned they are not of this earth. Darl seeks his soulmate Claire because together their special skills enhanced by love make them a formidable force. Claire can think herself to any place while Darl can think himself home from anyplace. When they meet, each feels whole for the first time and soon seek other hidden aliens, but instead find themselves trapped in a galaxy war as a bellicose race that destroyed their home planet focuses on earth.
This is a fun science fiction romance that ironically even with the potential destruction of the earth and the already annihilation of other planets and species is a lighthearted romp. The story line is faster than a speeding space ship, but never goes deep into any of the alien races. Still Jessica Inclan provides an engaging try to save the world by alien residents (without green cards) especially the heroine who leaves behind the crayon drawings of kindergarten artists.
Harriet Klausner
Destiny Kills-Keri Arthur
Destiny Kills
Keri Arthur
Dell, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553589603
She wakes up on a beach with no idea how she got there; next to her is a dead man whose name she recalls. When daylight arrives, he turns to ash. After stealing food and clothing, she tries to hitch a ride, but the man in the car plays chicken with her. She recalls her name is Destiny McCree and she realizes she is a sea dragon that can live in the sea as a human or a dragon. Jewel thief Trae Wilson, the dead man’s half-brother called him to help Destiny who was held captive by scientists who are studying adults dragons, dragon children of both sexes in an underground compound near Loch Ness.
Destiny is on a quest to see her father, an air dragon, before he dies; and to free the children and her mother from the scientist’s compound where scientists are experimenting on them with no regard to their well-being. Trae is willing to assist her especially since the seditious mercenary hunter dragons are stalking her to bring her back to the compound for quite a fee. Trae also wants his father’s ring that Destiny possesses so that he can give it back to his dad in return for information as to where his sister is. As they elude the hunters, Destiny and Trae realize they are soulmates, but have little hope for a future together as the quest comes before their hearts.
Keri Arthur’s opening salvo in a new paranormal romance series is a fantastic thriller as the full bodied characterizations make the world of dragons seem genuine. Destiny is a strong kick butt individual while Trae admires her inner strength so much so he willingly becomes her sidekick even before they realize they are mates. Although the plot is somewhat limited as expected in a first tale as the need to introduce the cast and the settings are critical, fans will enjoy this unique quest fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Keri Arthur
Dell, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780553589603
She wakes up on a beach with no idea how she got there; next to her is a dead man whose name she recalls. When daylight arrives, he turns to ash. After stealing food and clothing, she tries to hitch a ride, but the man in the car plays chicken with her. She recalls her name is Destiny McCree and she realizes she is a sea dragon that can live in the sea as a human or a dragon. Jewel thief Trae Wilson, the dead man’s half-brother called him to help Destiny who was held captive by scientists who are studying adults dragons, dragon children of both sexes in an underground compound near Loch Ness.
Destiny is on a quest to see her father, an air dragon, before he dies; and to free the children and her mother from the scientist’s compound where scientists are experimenting on them with no regard to their well-being. Trae is willing to assist her especially since the seditious mercenary hunter dragons are stalking her to bring her back to the compound for quite a fee. Trae also wants his father’s ring that Destiny possesses so that he can give it back to his dad in return for information as to where his sister is. As they elude the hunters, Destiny and Trae realize they are soulmates, but have little hope for a future together as the quest comes before their hearts.
Keri Arthur’s opening salvo in a new paranormal romance series is a fantastic thriller as the full bodied characterizations make the world of dragons seem genuine. Destiny is a strong kick butt individual while Trae admires her inner strength so much so he willingly becomes her sidekick even before they realize they are mates. Although the plot is somewhat limited as expected in a first tale as the need to introduce the cast and the settings are critical, fans will enjoy this unique quest fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, September 14, 2008
The Rustler-Linda Lael Miller
The Rustler
Linda Lael Miller
Harlequin HQN, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 0373773307
In 1907 Southern Arizona Territory, Wyatt Yarbro envies his younger brother Rowdy, an outlaw like him, who somehow has become the marshal of Stone Creek and married to the schoolmarm (see A WANTED MAN). Wyatt has just spent two hard years in a Texas prison and his current cattle rustling stint is a failure. Seeing the light he decides to start over in the town that reformed his sibling by making him the law.
In Stone Creek, Rowdy welcomes Wyatt; to his amazement his sister-in-law Lark does too. Wyatt decides that prim and proper Sarah Tamlin is his redemption as the woman to keep him straight. He initially is unaware of her darkest secret and obsession; to raise her son taken from her when she was an unmarried sixteen years old. While he helps her try to retrieve Owen from his wealthy influential father, his recent rustling past comes to Stone Creek.
The latest Stone Creek early twentieth century western romance is a terific thriller as another Yarbro outlaw turns hero due to the love of a good woman. Readers will feel they have been transported to 1907 southwest as Linda Lael Miller provides vivid details on life in Stone Creek. THE RUSTLER is a delightful historical starring two wonderful lead characters and the return of key Stone Creek players.
Harriet Klausner
Linda Lael Miller
Harlequin HQN, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 0373773307
In 1907 Southern Arizona Territory, Wyatt Yarbro envies his younger brother Rowdy, an outlaw like him, who somehow has become the marshal of Stone Creek and married to the schoolmarm (see A WANTED MAN). Wyatt has just spent two hard years in a Texas prison and his current cattle rustling stint is a failure. Seeing the light he decides to start over in the town that reformed his sibling by making him the law.
In Stone Creek, Rowdy welcomes Wyatt; to his amazement his sister-in-law Lark does too. Wyatt decides that prim and proper Sarah Tamlin is his redemption as the woman to keep him straight. He initially is unaware of her darkest secret and obsession; to raise her son taken from her when she was an unmarried sixteen years old. While he helps her try to retrieve Owen from his wealthy influential father, his recent rustling past comes to Stone Creek.
The latest Stone Creek early twentieth century western romance is a terific thriller as another Yarbro outlaw turns hero due to the love of a good woman. Readers will feel they have been transported to 1907 southwest as Linda Lael Miller provides vivid details on life in Stone Creek. THE RUSTLER is a delightful historical starring two wonderful lead characters and the return of key Stone Creek players.
Harriet Klausner
The Rustler-Linda Lael Miller
The Rustler
Linda Lael Miller
Harlequin HQN, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 0373773307
In 1907 Southern Arizona Territory, Wyatt Yarbro envies his younger brother Rowdy, an outlaw like him, who somehow has become the marshal of Stone Creek and married to the schoolmarm (see A WANTED MAN). Wyatt has just spent two hard years in a Texas prison and his current cattle rustling stint is a failure. Seeing the light he decides to start over in the town that reformed his sibling by making him the law.
In Stone Creek, Rowdy welcomes Wyatt; to his amazement his sister-in-law Lark does too. Wyatt decides that prim and proper Sarah Tamlin is his redemption as the woman to keep him straight. He initially is unaware of her darkest secret and obsession; to raise her son taken from her when she was an unmarried sixteen years old. While he helps her try to retrieve Owen from his wealthy influential father, his recent rustling past comes to Stone Creek.
The latest Stone Creek early twentieth century western romance is a terific thriller as another Yarbro outlaw turns hero due to the love of a good woman. Readers will feel they have been transported to 1907 southwest as Linda Lael Miller provides vivid details on life in Stone Creek. THE RUSTLER is a delightful historical starring two wonderful lead characters and the return of key Stone Creek players.
Harriet Klausner
Linda Lael Miller
Harlequin HQN, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 0373773307
In 1907 Southern Arizona Territory, Wyatt Yarbro envies his younger brother Rowdy, an outlaw like him, who somehow has become the marshal of Stone Creek and married to the schoolmarm (see A WANTED MAN). Wyatt has just spent two hard years in a Texas prison and his current cattle rustling stint is a failure. Seeing the light he decides to start over in the town that reformed his sibling by making him the law.
In Stone Creek, Rowdy welcomes Wyatt; to his amazement his sister-in-law Lark does too. Wyatt decides that prim and proper Sarah Tamlin is his redemption as the woman to keep him straight. He initially is unaware of her darkest secret and obsession; to raise her son taken from her when she was an unmarried sixteen years old. While he helps her try to retrieve Owen from his wealthy influential father, his recent rustling past comes to Stone Creek.
The latest Stone Creek early twentieth century western romance is a terific thriller as another Yarbro outlaw turns hero due to the love of a good woman. Readers will feel they have been transported to 1907 southwest as Linda Lael Miller provides vivid details on life in Stone Creek. THE RUSTLER is a delightful historical starring two wonderful lead characters and the return of key Stone Creek players.
Harriet Klausner
Where There’s Fire-Maureen McKade
Where There’s Fire
Maureen McKade
Berkley, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224212
Norfolk Violent Crimes Unit Police detective Shoni Alexander grieves the unexpected death of her mother due to a drunken driver by diving into her work. Shomi knows she is using her job to avoid thinking about her loss.
Her current prime case she investigates involves arson and murder. She realizes homeless John may have clues to enable her to solve the case; so she takes him into protective custody. Shoni learns John suffers from amnesia; unaware of whom he is. As they are attracted to one another, both wonder if he has a wife and kids wondering what happened to their father. As they begin to close in on the arsonists, her superior removes her from the official inquiry. She continues to focus on assisting John in learning his identity and hoping by doing that uncover the arson ring.
This is an engaging police procedural romance as readers will enjoy the banter between the lead couple; both has issues at the moment but the attraction is strong. Amnesia is an overly used gimmick, but Maureen McKade makes it work on the two intended levels of solving the case and falling in love. WHERE THERE’S FIRE is in the hearts of Shoni and John.
Harriet Klausner
Maureen McKade
Berkley, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224212
Norfolk Violent Crimes Unit Police detective Shoni Alexander grieves the unexpected death of her mother due to a drunken driver by diving into her work. Shomi knows she is using her job to avoid thinking about her loss.
Her current prime case she investigates involves arson and murder. She realizes homeless John may have clues to enable her to solve the case; so she takes him into protective custody. Shoni learns John suffers from amnesia; unaware of whom he is. As they are attracted to one another, both wonder if he has a wife and kids wondering what happened to their father. As they begin to close in on the arsonists, her superior removes her from the official inquiry. She continues to focus on assisting John in learning his identity and hoping by doing that uncover the arson ring.
This is an engaging police procedural romance as readers will enjoy the banter between the lead couple; both has issues at the moment but the attraction is strong. Amnesia is an overly used gimmick, but Maureen McKade makes it work on the two intended levels of solving the case and falling in love. WHERE THERE’S FIRE is in the hearts of Shoni and John.
Harriet Klausner
Fallen-Claire Delacroix
Fallen
Claire Delacroix
Tor, Oct 2008, $
ISBN: 0765359499
In 2099, Lilia Desjardins does not believe the official declaration that her estranged spouse Nuclear Darwinist Gideon “Gid” Fitzgerald died in an unfortunate accident. She assumes there is a cover-up but hesitates to make inquiries as she knows how dangerously repressive the Republic is and how lethal life in Gotham is.
A few months earlier, FALLEN angel Adam Montgomery had his wings surgically removed so he can go undercover as a cop inside the New Gotham police department; his mission is to assist Raziel, known as Rachel on this orb, save the earth. However, he is irate with Rachel as she refuses to provide him with information beyond looking for abnormalities within the police. Adam and Lilia meet at the New Gotham station when she mistakenly enters to report the eviscerated murder of Y654892. When Rachel is brutally murdered, Adam feels cut off and alone as he has no contact and no concept of the mission especially specifics. His only hope resides with Lilia, who is investigating Gid’s death; as he thinks there is a link.
Readers will appreciate this entertaining urban romantic fantasy from the moment Adam’s wings are clipped and enters wolf laden Central Park and never slows down as Claire Delacroix paints a nightmarish future. The story line is action-packed; mostly driven by the horrifically vivid bleak post nuclear war world but also to a degree by the lead couple as he now understands temptation and she hesitates to trust anyone with her “skins”. Hopefully Ms. Delacroix provides future tales in this FALLEN future venue.
Harriet Klausner
Claire Delacroix
Tor, Oct 2008, $
ISBN: 0765359499
In 2099, Lilia Desjardins does not believe the official declaration that her estranged spouse Nuclear Darwinist Gideon “Gid” Fitzgerald died in an unfortunate accident. She assumes there is a cover-up but hesitates to make inquiries as she knows how dangerously repressive the Republic is and how lethal life in Gotham is.
A few months earlier, FALLEN angel Adam Montgomery had his wings surgically removed so he can go undercover as a cop inside the New Gotham police department; his mission is to assist Raziel, known as Rachel on this orb, save the earth. However, he is irate with Rachel as she refuses to provide him with information beyond looking for abnormalities within the police. Adam and Lilia meet at the New Gotham station when she mistakenly enters to report the eviscerated murder of Y654892. When Rachel is brutally murdered, Adam feels cut off and alone as he has no contact and no concept of the mission especially specifics. His only hope resides with Lilia, who is investigating Gid’s death; as he thinks there is a link.
Readers will appreciate this entertaining urban romantic fantasy from the moment Adam’s wings are clipped and enters wolf laden Central Park and never slows down as Claire Delacroix paints a nightmarish future. The story line is action-packed; mostly driven by the horrifically vivid bleak post nuclear war world but also to a degree by the lead couple as he now understands temptation and she hesitates to trust anyone with her “skins”. Hopefully Ms. Delacroix provides future tales in this FALLEN future venue.
Harriet Klausner
Night’s Master-Amanda Ashley
Night’s Master
Amanda Ashley
Zebra, Oct 2008, $$6.99
ISBN: 0821780638
Mankind had finally achieved universal peace until Vampires and Weres each believed they should run the earth so they finally went to war to decide who would rule. Kathy McKenna did not want to get in the crossfire so she left the city for the Midwest town of Oak Hill; unaware that the place is in the neutral demilitarized zone where the two species discuss peace.
Kathy opened a bookstore but it was slow going until Raphael Cordova entered her shop. He leads the North American Vampires and is attracted to Kathy even though she is a mortal. He sends his friends to buy books from her. They go out on a date and she learns Raphael is a vampire who turned as a teen just like his twin brother who no one has heard from in decades. They have a good time together and agree to another date. The next day the Were-tiger Cogin visits her store and invites her on a picnic. She agrees, but his aggressiveness bothers her and the date is a bust. War comes to Oak Hill when the Were kill a Vampire.
Hunter of the supernatural Travis Jackson arrives in town to eradicate the vamp and were infestations. Kathy tells Rafe she would like to marry him, but does not want to become a vamp. He agrees to the status quo. Travis plans to use Kathy as bait to lure Rafe into a trap so they can experiment on turning him back into a human.
The paranormal species seem genuine as does this alternate earth. The romance is well written as forbidden love flows between the lead couple. Although some readers will scoff at Kathy the meek escaping the enemy while Rafe the powerful cannot; fans will enjoy this fine urban romantic fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Amanda Ashley
Zebra, Oct 2008, $$6.99
ISBN: 0821780638
Mankind had finally achieved universal peace until Vampires and Weres each believed they should run the earth so they finally went to war to decide who would rule. Kathy McKenna did not want to get in the crossfire so she left the city for the Midwest town of Oak Hill; unaware that the place is in the neutral demilitarized zone where the two species discuss peace.
Kathy opened a bookstore but it was slow going until Raphael Cordova entered her shop. He leads the North American Vampires and is attracted to Kathy even though she is a mortal. He sends his friends to buy books from her. They go out on a date and she learns Raphael is a vampire who turned as a teen just like his twin brother who no one has heard from in decades. They have a good time together and agree to another date. The next day the Were-tiger Cogin visits her store and invites her on a picnic. She agrees, but his aggressiveness bothers her and the date is a bust. War comes to Oak Hill when the Were kill a Vampire.
Hunter of the supernatural Travis Jackson arrives in town to eradicate the vamp and were infestations. Kathy tells Rafe she would like to marry him, but does not want to become a vamp. He agrees to the status quo. Travis plans to use Kathy as bait to lure Rafe into a trap so they can experiment on turning him back into a human.
The paranormal species seem genuine as does this alternate earth. The romance is well written as forbidden love flows between the lead couple. Although some readers will scoff at Kathy the meek escaping the enemy while Rafe the powerful cannot; fans will enjoy this fine urban romantic fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Red Fire-Deidre Knight
Red Fire
Deidre Knight
Signet, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225382
They were the magnificent seven Spartans of the mighty three hundred led by King Leonidas of Sparta who tied up the powerful Persian army at the battle of Thermoplyae. They sacrificed themselves to give the Greek army to the south time needed to prepare for the invaders. After observing these warriors die for the common good, the God Ares offered the chosen seven soldiers immortality in return for being humanity’s protectors; they accepted without a second of thought.
Twenty-five hundred years later one of the immortals Ajax Petrakos knows his loneliness will end soon as the Oracle has informed him his other half lives in Savannah, Georgia. He immediately travels there to meet Shay Angel before his ancient enemy a malevolent demon abducts her. However, Shay is not helpless as she and the male members of her clan see and hunt demons; she is the first female to be able to see the evil ones. As they come together to fight the immoral demonic djinn, he knows his passion for her is a distracting emotion in combat especially if a prophecy is true predicting death while she sees his dark wings and knows he is not an angel although he seems to offer her love.
RED FIRE is a fabulous urban romantic fantasy in which Knight’s mythos combines the ancient Greek Gods with the Spartan three hundred in a modern day setting. The story line is action-packed from the moment Ajax and Sable search for Shay and never slows down as one escapade leads to another. Although somewhat similar in tone to the numerous urban fantasy sagas inundating the market, sub-genre fans will enjoy this fine opening entry as Deidre Knight makes Greek Gods, Immortals, demons, and demon hunters seem real through a solid cast especially the doubts of the rude heroine.
Harriet Klausner
Deidre Knight
Signet, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225382
They were the magnificent seven Spartans of the mighty three hundred led by King Leonidas of Sparta who tied up the powerful Persian army at the battle of Thermoplyae. They sacrificed themselves to give the Greek army to the south time needed to prepare for the invaders. After observing these warriors die for the common good, the God Ares offered the chosen seven soldiers immortality in return for being humanity’s protectors; they accepted without a second of thought.
Twenty-five hundred years later one of the immortals Ajax Petrakos knows his loneliness will end soon as the Oracle has informed him his other half lives in Savannah, Georgia. He immediately travels there to meet Shay Angel before his ancient enemy a malevolent demon abducts her. However, Shay is not helpless as she and the male members of her clan see and hunt demons; she is the first female to be able to see the evil ones. As they come together to fight the immoral demonic djinn, he knows his passion for her is a distracting emotion in combat especially if a prophecy is true predicting death while she sees his dark wings and knows he is not an angel although he seems to offer her love.
RED FIRE is a fabulous urban romantic fantasy in which Knight’s mythos combines the ancient Greek Gods with the Spartan three hundred in a modern day setting. The story line is action-packed from the moment Ajax and Sable search for Shay and never slows down as one escapade leads to another. Although somewhat similar in tone to the numerous urban fantasy sagas inundating the market, sub-genre fans will enjoy this fine opening entry as Deidre Knight makes Greek Gods, Immortals, demons, and demon hunters seem real through a solid cast especially the doubts of the rude heroine.
Harriet Klausner
Saturday, September 13, 2008
For Her Eyes Only-Cait London
For Her Eyes Only
Cait London
Avon, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061140525
One of the Aisling triplets Leona hates having psychic abilities unlike her siblings. However, making matters worse she knows a psychopathic psychic seeking vengeance against her family has targeted her as the weakest link because she loathes using her skill and has failed to best her two sisters (see A STRANGER’S TOUCH and AT THE EDGE).
Owen Shaw pleads with Leona to help him rescue his disturbed sister caught by a dangerous psychic vampire. Reluctantly she agrees to assist him in rescuing her. As Leona and Owen fall in love, they must use their feelings as a team if they are to stop the maniac stalking her and save his sibling.
The third Aisling triplets’ urban romantic fantasy is an engaging tale though there is a lot of repetition that slows down the pace of the plot. Owen and Leona is a fun pairing as he needs her skills, but she detests using her talent. Although not as strong as the previous entries, fans will enjoy this final tale of the three sisters whose love for each other bonds them on the moral and paranormal planes.
Harriet Klausner
Cait London
Avon, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061140525
One of the Aisling triplets Leona hates having psychic abilities unlike her siblings. However, making matters worse she knows a psychopathic psychic seeking vengeance against her family has targeted her as the weakest link because she loathes using her skill and has failed to best her two sisters (see A STRANGER’S TOUCH and AT THE EDGE).
Owen Shaw pleads with Leona to help him rescue his disturbed sister caught by a dangerous psychic vampire. Reluctantly she agrees to assist him in rescuing her. As Leona and Owen fall in love, they must use their feelings as a team if they are to stop the maniac stalking her and save his sibling.
The third Aisling triplets’ urban romantic fantasy is an engaging tale though there is a lot of repetition that slows down the pace of the plot. Owen and Leona is a fun pairing as he needs her skills, but she detests using her talent. Although not as strong as the previous entries, fans will enjoy this final tale of the three sisters whose love for each other bonds them on the moral and paranormal planes.
Harriet Klausner
Night Falls Darkly-Kim Lenox
Night Falls Darkly
Kim Lenox
Signet, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225375
In 1887 Shadow Guard Archer Black reclaims the marked soul of Mr. Winslow, but in spite of his caution, collateral damage occurs when the deviant brings an innocent young woman into the fray. After completing his mission, to save the female’s life and keep her safe, Archer erases the memory of Miss Elena Whitney and vows to be her protector. Elena thinks that the accident caused her amnesia. She appreciates her unknown benefactor who has arranged for her to work as a nurse in Whitechapel and has done so much more for her include giving her hope she might one day become a doctor.
Almost two years later, Queen Victoria orders Archer to London to end Jack the Ripper’s reign of terror. He becomes mortified when he observes Elena walking the unsafe streets of Whitechapel where the Ripper kills his victims. To the Guardian’s chagrin, he finds focusing on the Ripper difficult because of his attraction to Elena; he knows he must put her out of his head so he can concentrate on the deadly East End psychopath.
NIGHT FALLS DARKLY is a supernatural Victorian romantic suspense thriller that grips the audience with the opening sequence when Archer goes to collect the marked soul and never slows down as he struggles to do likewise with the Ripper. The story line is filled with action and the right amount of romance; however it is the vivid time and place that anchors the novel and makes the “urban” fantasy elements seem genuine. With a fascinating underlying paranormal concept, this Shadow Guard saga opens with a refreshing new look at stopping Jack.
Harriet Klausner
Kim Lenox
Signet, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451225375
In 1887 Shadow Guard Archer Black reclaims the marked soul of Mr. Winslow, but in spite of his caution, collateral damage occurs when the deviant brings an innocent young woman into the fray. After completing his mission, to save the female’s life and keep her safe, Archer erases the memory of Miss Elena Whitney and vows to be her protector. Elena thinks that the accident caused her amnesia. She appreciates her unknown benefactor who has arranged for her to work as a nurse in Whitechapel and has done so much more for her include giving her hope she might one day become a doctor.
Almost two years later, Queen Victoria orders Archer to London to end Jack the Ripper’s reign of terror. He becomes mortified when he observes Elena walking the unsafe streets of Whitechapel where the Ripper kills his victims. To the Guardian’s chagrin, he finds focusing on the Ripper difficult because of his attraction to Elena; he knows he must put her out of his head so he can concentrate on the deadly East End psychopath.
NIGHT FALLS DARKLY is a supernatural Victorian romantic suspense thriller that grips the audience with the opening sequence when Archer goes to collect the marked soul and never slows down as he struggles to do likewise with the Ripper. The story line is filled with action and the right amount of romance; however it is the vivid time and place that anchors the novel and makes the “urban” fantasy elements seem genuine. With a fascinating underlying paranormal concept, this Shadow Guard saga opens with a refreshing new look at stopping Jack.
Harriet Klausner
The Darkest Touch-Jaci Burton
The Darkest Touch
Jaci Burton
Dell, Oct 28 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780440244547
In an Australian cave, the Sons of Darkness, powerful demon lords, answer directly to the Evil One. They demand archeologist Angelique Deveraux to meld with the black diamond she was hired to find. When she touches it the diamond’s magical light goes out. Instead of making it glow stronger. Angie is afraid that her twin sister Isabelle, who was always a bit evil, will bring the stone to life. While the Realm of Light demon hunters fight the Sons of Darkness, Angie hides the diamond so her sibling will not use it.
A Realm of Light member observes Isabelle to see if she embraced the demon inside her as the father of her and her sister was a powerful demon lord. Dalton ends up following Isabelle while Ryder who is supposed to get the gem from Angie falls for her. Both men fear what will happen to their women and themselves. When the Sons of Darkness kidnap the twins, they both understand their new rescue mission is to save their respective significant other or die trying; while the sisters have decisions to make that if made wrong will end up with the Sons of Darkness ruling humanity.
The two sisters will have come to terms re their dark heritage and understanding the evil that makes up part of their “DNA”. The story line is a dark vs. light romantic suspense fantasy. The Sons of Darkness want nothing less than ruling all life on earth while the Realm of Light is determined to prevent that from happening; the twins are caught in the middle. Jaci Burton provides a dynamic and enthralling paranormal romantic thriller as demon war threatens the planet.
Harriet Klausner
Jaci Burton
Dell, Oct 28 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780440244547
In an Australian cave, the Sons of Darkness, powerful demon lords, answer directly to the Evil One. They demand archeologist Angelique Deveraux to meld with the black diamond she was hired to find. When she touches it the diamond’s magical light goes out. Instead of making it glow stronger. Angie is afraid that her twin sister Isabelle, who was always a bit evil, will bring the stone to life. While the Realm of Light demon hunters fight the Sons of Darkness, Angie hides the diamond so her sibling will not use it.
A Realm of Light member observes Isabelle to see if she embraced the demon inside her as the father of her and her sister was a powerful demon lord. Dalton ends up following Isabelle while Ryder who is supposed to get the gem from Angie falls for her. Both men fear what will happen to their women and themselves. When the Sons of Darkness kidnap the twins, they both understand their new rescue mission is to save their respective significant other or die trying; while the sisters have decisions to make that if made wrong will end up with the Sons of Darkness ruling humanity.
The two sisters will have come to terms re their dark heritage and understanding the evil that makes up part of their “DNA”. The story line is a dark vs. light romantic suspense fantasy. The Sons of Darkness want nothing less than ruling all life on earth while the Realm of Light is determined to prevent that from happening; the twins are caught in the middle. Jaci Burton provides a dynamic and enthralling paranormal romantic thriller as demon war threatens the planet.
Harriet Klausner
Christmas Wishes-Jewels of the Quill
Christmas Wishes
Jewels of the Quill
Whiskey Creek, 2008
ISBN: 9781603132589
“All She Wore Was a Bow” by Christine DeSmet. After Kincaid sets a record in bull riding, he learns a Moonstone friend is getting married. He rushes to rescue his pal from a legal jail sentence. However, Gloria the wedding planner hogties him faster than he can a bull.
“Little Cat Feet” by Margaret L. Carter. Ten months ago, Lauren's father died. She misses her dad, much more right now because it is her first Christmas without him. Worse her mom has had her lover move in with them. She runs away, but stops to rescue a cat who in turn rescues Lauren.
“Christmas Faith” by Karen Woods. Faith is angry with God for taking away her loved ones. She is alone, but is in awe of her new neighbor who lives up to her name with a strong faith in God in spite of being a single dad raising children alone.
“Perfect Cadence” by Karen Wiesner. Still upset over her recent break up with her boyfriend, Keri uses her boss Angela's cabin to stay in while skiing over the holidays. Angela's cousin Joshua is also using the cabin as his base while he too is skiing.
“Are you listening?” by Jane Toombs. Rico’s dad vanished several years ago, but the child has not moved on. Instead he wishes for his father to come home for Christmas. He begins to hear his dad who provides him with directions as to how Rico can make his Christmas wish come true.
“Annie’s Outlaw” by Nancy Pirri. In the 1880s, just released from prison, Cane travels to Bozeman, Montana to meet his son for the first time. He had been unaware until recently he sired a child and he wants to raise his kid. Tom and his daughter Annie have raised the child with love and do not want to give him up especially to a convict with no prospects.
The six Quill contributions cover several genres to include young adult, but share in common an interesting and uplifting jewel of a holiday theme.
Harriet Klausner
Jewels of the Quill
Whiskey Creek, 2008
ISBN: 9781603132589
“All She Wore Was a Bow” by Christine DeSmet. After Kincaid sets a record in bull riding, he learns a Moonstone friend is getting married. He rushes to rescue his pal from a legal jail sentence. However, Gloria the wedding planner hogties him faster than he can a bull.
“Little Cat Feet” by Margaret L. Carter. Ten months ago, Lauren's father died. She misses her dad, much more right now because it is her first Christmas without him. Worse her mom has had her lover move in with them. She runs away, but stops to rescue a cat who in turn rescues Lauren.
“Christmas Faith” by Karen Woods. Faith is angry with God for taking away her loved ones. She is alone, but is in awe of her new neighbor who lives up to her name with a strong faith in God in spite of being a single dad raising children alone.
“Perfect Cadence” by Karen Wiesner. Still upset over her recent break up with her boyfriend, Keri uses her boss Angela's cabin to stay in while skiing over the holidays. Angela's cousin Joshua is also using the cabin as his base while he too is skiing.
“Are you listening?” by Jane Toombs. Rico’s dad vanished several years ago, but the child has not moved on. Instead he wishes for his father to come home for Christmas. He begins to hear his dad who provides him with directions as to how Rico can make his Christmas wish come true.
“Annie’s Outlaw” by Nancy Pirri. In the 1880s, just released from prison, Cane travels to Bozeman, Montana to meet his son for the first time. He had been unaware until recently he sired a child and he wants to raise his kid. Tom and his daughter Annie have raised the child with love and do not want to give him up especially to a convict with no prospects.
The six Quill contributions cover several genres to include young adult, but share in common an interesting and uplifting jewel of a holiday theme.
Harriet Klausner
For Her Eyes Only-Cait London
For Her Eyes Only
Cait London
Avon, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061140525
One of the Aisling triplets Leona hates having psychic abilities unlike her siblings. However, making matters worse she knows a psychopathic psychic seeking vengeance against her family has targeted her as the weakest link because she loathes using her skill and has failed to best her two sisters (see A STRANGER’S TOUCH and AT THE EDGE).
Owen Shaw pleads with Leona to help him rescue his disturbed sister caught by a dangerous psychic vampire. Reluctantly she agrees to assist him in rescuing her. As Leona and Owen fall in love, they must use their feelings as a team if they are to stop the maniac stalking her and save his sibling.
The third Aisling triplets’ urban romantic fantasy is an engaging tale though there is a lot of repetition that slows down the pace of the plot. Owen and Leona is a fun pairing as he needs her skills, but she detests using her talent. Although not as strong as the previous entries, fans will enjoy this final tale of the three sisters whose love for each other bonds them on the moral and paranormal planes.
Harriet Klausner
Cait London
Avon, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061140525
One of the Aisling triplets Leona hates having psychic abilities unlike her siblings. However, making matters worse she knows a psychopathic psychic seeking vengeance against her family has targeted her as the weakest link because she loathes using her skill and has failed to best her two sisters (see A STRANGER’S TOUCH and AT THE EDGE).
Owen Shaw pleads with Leona to help him rescue his disturbed sister caught by a dangerous psychic vampire. Reluctantly she agrees to assist him in rescuing her. As Leona and Owen fall in love, they must use their feelings as a team if they are to stop the maniac stalking her and save his sibling.
The third Aisling triplets’ urban romantic fantasy is an engaging tale though there is a lot of repetition that slows down the pace of the plot. Owen and Leona is a fun pairing as he needs her skills, but she detests using her talent. Although not as strong as the previous entries, fans will enjoy this final tale of the three sisters whose love for each other bonds them on the moral and paranormal planes.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, September 12, 2008
The Magical Christmas Cat-Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones and Lora Leigh
The Magical Christmas Cat
Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones and Lora Leigh
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223550
"Stroke of Enticement" by Nalini Singh. Human teacher Annie Kildare believes DarkRiver soldier Zach Quinn's cat is a teacher’s pet as the feline plays matchmaker.
"Christmas Bree" by Erin McCarthy. Witch Bree Murphy cast a spell last Christmas for her sister Abby only this Yuletide the spell returns when Bree meets attorney Ian Carrington.
"Sweet Dreams" by Linda Winstead Jones. In Secret Santa gala, Ruby Kincaid selects Professor Zane Benedict to give a present too; unaware that he in town to destroy an ancient malevolence
"Christmas Heat" by Lora Leigh. Breed enforcer Noble Chavin is assigned keeping human Haley McGuire safe so she can testify in court re a deadly conspiracy.
These are four magical whmsical romantic fantasies that lighten and brighten the holiday season.
Harriet Klausner
Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones and Lora Leigh
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223550
"Stroke of Enticement" by Nalini Singh. Human teacher Annie Kildare believes DarkRiver soldier Zach Quinn's cat is a teacher’s pet as the feline plays matchmaker.
"Christmas Bree" by Erin McCarthy. Witch Bree Murphy cast a spell last Christmas for her sister Abby only this Yuletide the spell returns when Bree meets attorney Ian Carrington.
"Sweet Dreams" by Linda Winstead Jones. In Secret Santa gala, Ruby Kincaid selects Professor Zane Benedict to give a present too; unaware that he in town to destroy an ancient malevolence
"Christmas Heat" by Lora Leigh. Breed enforcer Noble Chavin is assigned keeping human Haley McGuire safe so she can testify in court re a deadly conspiracy.
These are four magical whmsical romantic fantasies that lighten and brighten the holiday season.
Harriet Klausner
The Magical Christmas Cat-Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones and Lora Leigh
The Magical Christmas Cat
Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones and Lora Leigh
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223550
"Stroke of Enticement" by Nalini Singh. Human teacher Annie Kildare believes DarkRiver soldier Zach Quinn's cat is a teacher’s pet as the feline plays matchmaker.
"Christmas Bree" by Erin McCarthy. Witch Bree Murphy cast a spell last Christmas for her sister Abby only this Yuletide the spell returns when Bree meets attorney Ian Carrington.
"Sweet Dreams" by Linda Winstead Jones. In Secret Santa gala, Ruby Kincaid selects Professor Zane Benedict to give a present too; unaware that he in town to destroy an ancient malevolence
"Christmas Heat" by Lora Leigh. Breed enforcer Noble Chavin is assigned keeping human Haley McGuire safe so she can testify in court re a deadly conspiracy.
These are four magical whmsical romantic fantasies that lighten and brighten the holiday season.
Harriet Klausner
Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, Linda Winstead Jones and Lora Leigh
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223550
"Stroke of Enticement" by Nalini Singh. Human teacher Annie Kildare believes DarkRiver soldier Zach Quinn's cat is a teacher’s pet as the feline plays matchmaker.
"Christmas Bree" by Erin McCarthy. Witch Bree Murphy cast a spell last Christmas for her sister Abby only this Yuletide the spell returns when Bree meets attorney Ian Carrington.
"Sweet Dreams" by Linda Winstead Jones. In Secret Santa gala, Ruby Kincaid selects Professor Zane Benedict to give a present too; unaware that he in town to destroy an ancient malevolence
"Christmas Heat" by Lora Leigh. Breed enforcer Noble Chavin is assigned keeping human Haley McGuire safe so she can testify in court re a deadly conspiracy.
These are four magical whmsical romantic fantasies that lighten and brighten the holiday season.
Harriet Klausner
It Happened One Night- Stephanie Laurens, Mary Balogh, Jacquie D'Alessandro and Candice Hern
It Happened One Night
Stephanie Laurens, Mary Balogh, Jacquie D'Alessandro and Candice Hern
Avon, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061354168
"The Fall of Rogue Gerrard" by Stephanie Laurens. Robert and Lydia search for some missing papers; he may be the rake, but she has the seduction planned.
"Spellbound” by Mary Balogh. A decade ago Nora and Richard eloped, but her family annulled the marriage. Richard rescues Nora from a coaching accident; both want to elope again as they remain in love.
"Only You" by Jacquie D'Alessandro. Widow Cassandra Heywood has always loved the innkeeper Ethan though their social classes keep them apart until now; she is determined to marry her beloved
"From This Moment On" by Candice Hern. While at war, Sam hid his love for Wilhelmina. Now home, the former captain plans to make the duchess his wife.
The plot premise of this enjoyable anthology as described by Ms. Balogh in A Letter to the Reader is: “A man and a woman, who have not seen each other in ten years, meet again when they find themselves staying at the same inn for a twenty-four hour period.” That concept provides the underlying fascination to this compilation as historical romance fans will compare each work (and rank them). These are four gutsy authors to do this somewhat limiting method. However, each provides a strong novella starring interesting lead couples; and more important different well written slants on the basic theme.
Harriet Klausner
Stephanie Laurens, Mary Balogh, Jacquie D'Alessandro and Candice Hern
Avon, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061354168
"The Fall of Rogue Gerrard" by Stephanie Laurens. Robert and Lydia search for some missing papers; he may be the rake, but she has the seduction planned.
"Spellbound” by Mary Balogh. A decade ago Nora and Richard eloped, but her family annulled the marriage. Richard rescues Nora from a coaching accident; both want to elope again as they remain in love.
"Only You" by Jacquie D'Alessandro. Widow Cassandra Heywood has always loved the innkeeper Ethan though their social classes keep them apart until now; she is determined to marry her beloved
"From This Moment On" by Candice Hern. While at war, Sam hid his love for Wilhelmina. Now home, the former captain plans to make the duchess his wife.
The plot premise of this enjoyable anthology as described by Ms. Balogh in A Letter to the Reader is: “A man and a woman, who have not seen each other in ten years, meet again when they find themselves staying at the same inn for a twenty-four hour period.” That concept provides the underlying fascination to this compilation as historical romance fans will compare each work (and rank them). These are four gutsy authors to do this somewhat limiting method. However, each provides a strong novella starring interesting lead couples; and more important different well written slants on the basic theme.
Harriet Klausner
Riding Temptation-Jaci Burton
Riding Temptation
Jaci Burton
Berkley Heat, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223574
Twenty-three years old Jessie Matthews wants to be more than a mascot to the special ops Wild Riders bikers; she wants to participate on their assignments as am operative. She has hope that will occur soon because their leader General Grange Lee has welcomed a female (see RIDING WILD) into the gang as a field agent.
No longer the street waif she once was; Jessie also wishes that Wild Rider biker Diaz Delgado would see her as a vibrant sexy woman rather than his tag along kid sister; she is unconcerned how the other bikers see her. She is thankful when her two dreams come true as General Lee assigns her and Diaz to investigate illegal arms dealers. Diaz, who has watched Jesse grow up, has been attracted to the woman for several years, but hides his feelings from everyone. However, being undercover and alone with her will test his libido and his heart as Jessie plans to seductively persuade her beloved they can be just like Mac and Lily, lovers and bikers.
The second Wild Riders romantic suspense thriller is a fast paced tale from the moment General Lee gives out assignments in Dallas and never decelerates until the climax. The story line is a bit thin, but filled with plenty of action. However, the tale is owned by the lead couple as knows what she wants and goes out to get it while he knows who he wants to avoid, but cannot elude her without jeopardizing the mission. Jaci Burton provides another exciting biker wild bunch romance.
Harriet Klausner
Jaci Burton
Berkley Heat, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223574
Twenty-three years old Jessie Matthews wants to be more than a mascot to the special ops Wild Riders bikers; she wants to participate on their assignments as am operative. She has hope that will occur soon because their leader General Grange Lee has welcomed a female (see RIDING WILD) into the gang as a field agent.
No longer the street waif she once was; Jessie also wishes that Wild Rider biker Diaz Delgado would see her as a vibrant sexy woman rather than his tag along kid sister; she is unconcerned how the other bikers see her. She is thankful when her two dreams come true as General Lee assigns her and Diaz to investigate illegal arms dealers. Diaz, who has watched Jesse grow up, has been attracted to the woman for several years, but hides his feelings from everyone. However, being undercover and alone with her will test his libido and his heart as Jessie plans to seductively persuade her beloved they can be just like Mac and Lily, lovers and bikers.
The second Wild Riders romantic suspense thriller is a fast paced tale from the moment General Lee gives out assignments in Dallas and never decelerates until the climax. The story line is a bit thin, but filled with plenty of action. However, the tale is owned by the lead couple as knows what she wants and goes out to get it while he knows who he wants to avoid, but cannot elude her without jeopardizing the mission. Jaci Burton provides another exciting biker wild bunch romance.
Harriet Klausner
The Rogue Hunter-Lynsay Sands
The Rogue Hunter
Lynsay Sands
Avon, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061474293
For eight centuries Immortal Garrett Mortimer has hunted rogue vampires while praying he would meet his eternal mate. As he stalks a killing vampire in the Canadian woods, the last person he expects to meet is his mate. Fate is strange as attorney Samantha Willan is his lifemate, but she is the diametrical opposite of what he wants in a woman as she is a workaholic who cannot relax even on vacation.
Sam is on vacation with her two sisters, Jo and Alex. She does not want a fling, which is what she assumes her persistent suitor wants. However, she is attracted to Garrett although she is concerned about some of his idiosyncrasies and health issues like his obsessive sunlight abstinence. When Sam investigates her boss's missing goddaughter, Garrett the paranormal cop joins her.
THE ROGUE HUNTER, the sequel to BITE ME IF YOU CAN, is an exhilarating romantic urban fantasy enhanced by the mystery of the missing daughter. The key to the tale is mortal Sam who logically and intelligently decides things even why Garrett makes her heart beat faster. Fans will enjoy this fine tale as the hunter’s latest prey is his lifemate.
Harriet Klausner
Lynsay Sands
Avon, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061474293
For eight centuries Immortal Garrett Mortimer has hunted rogue vampires while praying he would meet his eternal mate. As he stalks a killing vampire in the Canadian woods, the last person he expects to meet is his mate. Fate is strange as attorney Samantha Willan is his lifemate, but she is the diametrical opposite of what he wants in a woman as she is a workaholic who cannot relax even on vacation.
Sam is on vacation with her two sisters, Jo and Alex. She does not want a fling, which is what she assumes her persistent suitor wants. However, she is attracted to Garrett although she is concerned about some of his idiosyncrasies and health issues like his obsessive sunlight abstinence. When Sam investigates her boss's missing goddaughter, Garrett the paranormal cop joins her.
THE ROGUE HUNTER, the sequel to BITE ME IF YOU CAN, is an exhilarating romantic urban fantasy enhanced by the mystery of the missing daughter. The key to the tale is mortal Sam who logically and intelligently decides things even why Garrett makes her heart beat faster. Fans will enjoy this fine tale as the hunter’s latest prey is his lifemate.
Harriet Klausner
Tempt Me With Darkness-Shayla Black
Tempt Me With Darkness
Shayla Black
Pocket, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1416558586
King Arthur’s loyal knight Marrok of Cadbury and Morganna le Fay shared a heated rendezvous that turned ugly. Outraged as no one affronts Morganna, she uses the Doomsday Diary to curse her former lover. For eternity Marrok will never obtain sexual satisfaction. Stunned and desperate, Marrok steals her Doomsday Diary, but over the millennium and a half he never found a way to break the curse; imagine, fifteen centuries of disappointing sex.
In the present day in England, Marrok and untrained unaware witch Olivia Gray meet when they co-star in her passionate erotic wet dreams. Attracted to the nocturnal sleeping Olivia, Marrok realizes her DNA connection to Morganna so he abducts her, demanding she end her ancestor’s curse on him. She agrees to try. As they work together and begin to fall in love, an evil wizard learns who possesses the legendary Doomsday Diary and sends his minion to steal it. With no options available, Marrok and Olivia obtain allies from amongst the Doomsday Brethren wizards as a magical civil war ignites.
This fascinating urban fantasy stars a lead male who trusts no one, but especially distrusts anything associated with magic; and a courageous female who has no idea about her family tree or her bewitching skills. Fast-paced from the onset as a brooding frustrated Marrok feels he has found the key to opening the Doomsday Diary only to realize she is clueless. TEMPT ME WITH DARKNESS is an entertaining tale that will leave fans believing in the magic of a wonderful author who paints it black.
Harriet Klausner
Shayla Black
Pocket, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1416558586
King Arthur’s loyal knight Marrok of Cadbury and Morganna le Fay shared a heated rendezvous that turned ugly. Outraged as no one affronts Morganna, she uses the Doomsday Diary to curse her former lover. For eternity Marrok will never obtain sexual satisfaction. Stunned and desperate, Marrok steals her Doomsday Diary, but over the millennium and a half he never found a way to break the curse; imagine, fifteen centuries of disappointing sex.
In the present day in England, Marrok and untrained unaware witch Olivia Gray meet when they co-star in her passionate erotic wet dreams. Attracted to the nocturnal sleeping Olivia, Marrok realizes her DNA connection to Morganna so he abducts her, demanding she end her ancestor’s curse on him. She agrees to try. As they work together and begin to fall in love, an evil wizard learns who possesses the legendary Doomsday Diary and sends his minion to steal it. With no options available, Marrok and Olivia obtain allies from amongst the Doomsday Brethren wizards as a magical civil war ignites.
This fascinating urban fantasy stars a lead male who trusts no one, but especially distrusts anything associated with magic; and a courageous female who has no idea about her family tree or her bewitching skills. Fast-paced from the onset as a brooding frustrated Marrok feels he has found the key to opening the Doomsday Diary only to realize she is clueless. TEMPT ME WITH DARKNESS is an entertaining tale that will leave fans believing in the magic of a wonderful author who paints it black.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Driven by Desire-LuAnn McLane
Driven by Desire
LuAnn McLane
Signet Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451225047
Jayden Michaels gave his girlfriend Alexia Spencer an ultimatum not so much in words but in action. He left their hometown of Braxton to join the motorcycle racing circuit. He hoped she would follow him. Instead disappointed in the man she loves, Alexia chose and married someone twenty years older than her.
A decade has past since both separately left Braxton. Both have come home for differing reasons. Jayden heals at home from a shoulder injury while helping to create a local youth motocross club. Reporter Alexia has come home after obtaining a divorce. Both want the other purged from their blood so he agrees to have Alexia interview him for the local paper. Instead they remain attracted and considering a second chance at love, but she has one secret that she must reveal to him although she expects their relationship to end because of it.
The insight into motocross racing is fascinating especially the juvenile locker room bantering between the drivers although not deep enough to satisfy the curious about the sport. Alexia is a wonderful but too trusting protagonist as her sister and her friend betray her with their mouths; while Jayden is caught between machismo at the track and love. Although lacking depth especially at the track, DRIVEN BY DESIRE is an interesting second chance at love sports romance.
Harriet Klausner
LuAnn McLane
Signet Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451225047
Jayden Michaels gave his girlfriend Alexia Spencer an ultimatum not so much in words but in action. He left their hometown of Braxton to join the motorcycle racing circuit. He hoped she would follow him. Instead disappointed in the man she loves, Alexia chose and married someone twenty years older than her.
A decade has past since both separately left Braxton. Both have come home for differing reasons. Jayden heals at home from a shoulder injury while helping to create a local youth motocross club. Reporter Alexia has come home after obtaining a divorce. Both want the other purged from their blood so he agrees to have Alexia interview him for the local paper. Instead they remain attracted and considering a second chance at love, but she has one secret that she must reveal to him although she expects their relationship to end because of it.
The insight into motocross racing is fascinating especially the juvenile locker room bantering between the drivers although not deep enough to satisfy the curious about the sport. Alexia is a wonderful but too trusting protagonist as her sister and her friend betray her with their mouths; while Jayden is caught between machismo at the track and love. Although lacking depth especially at the track, DRIVEN BY DESIRE is an interesting second chance at love sports romance.
Harriet Klausner
Secret Desires of a Gentleman-Laura Lee Guhrke
Secret Desires of a Gentleman
Laura Lee Guhrke
Avon, Oct., 380 pp., $5.99
ISBN: 9780061456824
In 1883 Lawrence Hawthorne and Maria Martingale were attracted to one another although she was the daughter of the cook and he was the second son of the lord. She especially dreamed of marrying him one day and Lawrence wanted that as much as she did. However, Lawrence’s older brother Phillip the Marquess ended this fantasy. Maria went into exile in France where she became a famous pastry chef while Lawrence behaved like an aristocrat (in the image of his dominating sibling).
In 1895, Maria comes home to open a shop near Phillip's home. He fears she has returned to win Lawrence’s hand in marriage although his younger brother is engaged to a wealthy American. He will not allow her to cause a scandal; there is only one problem with his intervention, he is falling love with the stubborn Maria
Victorian romance fans will appreciate this fun Girl-Bachelor Chronicles saga starring a wonderful working class heroine and the haughty aristocrat who kicked her across the Channel a dozen years earlier and still has strong control of her life except this time she fights back. Filled with lighthearted humor, SECRET DESIRES OF A GENTLEMAN is an entertaining late nineteenth century historical as Laura Lee Guhrke bakes a fun tale of love and class warfare.
Harriet Klausner
Laura Lee Guhrke
Avon, Oct., 380 pp., $5.99
ISBN: 9780061456824
In 1883 Lawrence Hawthorne and Maria Martingale were attracted to one another although she was the daughter of the cook and he was the second son of the lord. She especially dreamed of marrying him one day and Lawrence wanted that as much as she did. However, Lawrence’s older brother Phillip the Marquess ended this fantasy. Maria went into exile in France where she became a famous pastry chef while Lawrence behaved like an aristocrat (in the image of his dominating sibling).
In 1895, Maria comes home to open a shop near Phillip's home. He fears she has returned to win Lawrence’s hand in marriage although his younger brother is engaged to a wealthy American. He will not allow her to cause a scandal; there is only one problem with his intervention, he is falling love with the stubborn Maria
Victorian romance fans will appreciate this fun Girl-Bachelor Chronicles saga starring a wonderful working class heroine and the haughty aristocrat who kicked her across the Channel a dozen years earlier and still has strong control of her life except this time she fights back. Filled with lighthearted humor, SECRET DESIRES OF A GENTLEMAN is an entertaining late nineteenth century historical as Laura Lee Guhrke bakes a fun tale of love and class warfare.
Harriet Klausner
Under the Highlander's Spell-Donna Fletcher
Under the Highlander's Spell
Donna Fletcher
Avon, Oct., 380 pp., $5.99
ISBN: 9780061375446
In the Highlands Artair Sinclare searches for his missing brother Ronan. When he sees a mob about to burn a healer as a witch, he intervenes and rescues her. Zia saved the life of his sibling, but in payment for saving hers, he demands she guide him to Ronan.
As they travel together, Artair keeps Zia safe while she provides help to people. He persuades her to visit Ronan’s pregnant wife to insure she is okay. Posing as a married couple, they fall in love, but witch hunters want her dead and collateral damage to include his pregnant sister-in-law is acceptable. Only in marriage can Zia be safe, but her unknown heritage makes her unacceptable regardless of how Artair feels.
The second Sinclare brothers' sixteenth century romance (see RETURN OF THE ROGUE) is an engaging historical made fresh by the unique lead female protagonist. The first meeting between Artair and Zia occurs as the crazed villagers screams “Burn witch burn”. The story line is somewhat typical of the Highlands historicals, but sub-genre fans will find themselves under the author’s spell as Donna Fletcher provides a fun passionate romance.
Harriet Klausner
Donna Fletcher
Avon, Oct., 380 pp., $5.99
ISBN: 9780061375446
In the Highlands Artair Sinclare searches for his missing brother Ronan. When he sees a mob about to burn a healer as a witch, he intervenes and rescues her. Zia saved the life of his sibling, but in payment for saving hers, he demands she guide him to Ronan.
As they travel together, Artair keeps Zia safe while she provides help to people. He persuades her to visit Ronan’s pregnant wife to insure she is okay. Posing as a married couple, they fall in love, but witch hunters want her dead and collateral damage to include his pregnant sister-in-law is acceptable. Only in marriage can Zia be safe, but her unknown heritage makes her unacceptable regardless of how Artair feels.
The second Sinclare brothers' sixteenth century romance (see RETURN OF THE ROGUE) is an engaging historical made fresh by the unique lead female protagonist. The first meeting between Artair and Zia occurs as the crazed villagers screams “Burn witch burn”. The story line is somewhat typical of the Highlands historicals, but sub-genre fans will find themselves under the author’s spell as Donna Fletcher provides a fun passionate romance.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Power Play-Deidre Martin
Power Play
Deidre Martin
Berkley, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224519
When National Hockey superstar Eric Mitchell and soap opera superstar Monica Geary begin dating after the Blades superstar does a cameo on the Wild and the Free show, fans of the two worlds watch in amazement. They seem like the perfect All American couple as they seem so in love and in heat. In reality, neither likes the other; their publicists set up the romantic scenario to obtain positive press.
Both are competitive, enjoy FAIR PLAY, and in spite of their mutual dislike, each tries so much harder to maximize their skills in order to gain the admiration of the other (and avoid THE PENALTY BOX). As they become better acquainted, an admiration begins that turns into an attraction. Soon the athlete and the actress begin to wonder if they can turn a con job into the real thing.
Having a romance between a hockey player and an actress will remind fans of Gretzky and Jones, but Deirdre Martin puts her trademark winning game strategy to the tale. The lead couple is a delightful combination as neither start off warm; in fact each is icy obnoxious. As they fall in love, their personalities soften so that the audience watches the pair skate as a team making the winning goal.
Harriet Klausner
Deidre Martin
Berkley, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224519
When National Hockey superstar Eric Mitchell and soap opera superstar Monica Geary begin dating after the Blades superstar does a cameo on the Wild and the Free show, fans of the two worlds watch in amazement. They seem like the perfect All American couple as they seem so in love and in heat. In reality, neither likes the other; their publicists set up the romantic scenario to obtain positive press.
Both are competitive, enjoy FAIR PLAY, and in spite of their mutual dislike, each tries so much harder to maximize their skills in order to gain the admiration of the other (and avoid THE PENALTY BOX). As they become better acquainted, an admiration begins that turns into an attraction. Soon the athlete and the actress begin to wonder if they can turn a con job into the real thing.
Having a romance between a hockey player and an actress will remind fans of Gretzky and Jones, but Deirdre Martin puts her trademark winning game strategy to the tale. The lead couple is a delightful combination as neither start off warm; in fact each is icy obnoxious. As they fall in love, their personalities soften so that the audience watches the pair skate as a team making the winning goal.
Harriet Klausner
Bond of Darkness-Diane Whiteside
Bond of Darkness
Diane Whiteside
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223543
Texas Ranger Stephanie “Steve” Reynolds is assigned as lead investigator into the serial killing of women throughout the state. Each victim has the same teeth marks on their necks. A bite Steve recognizes, though she is not a forensic dentist, as belonging to her lover Ethan Templeton or more likely she considers one of his kind.
A vampire charged to keep Texas safe, Ethan knows a rogue has invaded the state. He must bring the killer to justice while also keeping his beloved human Steve safe; as he thinks she is a probable target of the homicidal vampire. To keep her from harm, Ethan believes he must convert her into an undead, but he knows that doing this most likely means his demise.
The third “Bond” Texas vampire thriller (see BLOND OF BLOOD and BOND OF FIRE) is an enjoyable paranormal romantic police procedural. The story line is fast-paced; perhaps too fast as events flash by rather rapidly. However, in spite of an acceleration that makes the DC Flash look like the Turtle, fans of the undead world of Diane Whiteside will appreciate Ethan’s dilemma re the mortal woman he loves.
Harriet Klausner
Diane Whiteside
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223543
Texas Ranger Stephanie “Steve” Reynolds is assigned as lead investigator into the serial killing of women throughout the state. Each victim has the same teeth marks on their necks. A bite Steve recognizes, though she is not a forensic dentist, as belonging to her lover Ethan Templeton or more likely she considers one of his kind.
A vampire charged to keep Texas safe, Ethan knows a rogue has invaded the state. He must bring the killer to justice while also keeping his beloved human Steve safe; as he thinks she is a probable target of the homicidal vampire. To keep her from harm, Ethan believes he must convert her into an undead, but he knows that doing this most likely means his demise.
The third “Bond” Texas vampire thriller (see BLOND OF BLOOD and BOND OF FIRE) is an enjoyable paranormal romantic police procedural. The story line is fast-paced; perhaps too fast as events flash by rather rapidly. However, in spite of an acceleration that makes the DC Flash look like the Turtle, fans of the undead world of Diane Whiteside will appreciate Ethan’s dilemma re the mortal woman he loves.
Harriet Klausner
Mercury's War-Lora Leigh
Mercury's War
Lora Leigh
Berkley, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9789425224182
Dr. Elyianna Morrey tells Sanctuary chief Jonas Wyatt that she is worried about lion breed enforcer Mercury Warrant, who has been off the anti feral drug for seven years. Her concerns focus on his attraction to Rio Rodriguez even though the couple has not even met. The scientist has seen the film of a berserker Mercury killing those he blamed for the death of his soulmate and fears a repercussion.
Two weeks later Rio arrives at Sanctuary to look over the expenses as the Leo, the father of her boss Dane, donates a lot of money here. Mercury is her bodyguard. She insists she is a human clerk, but he senses much more underneath her dowdy wardrobe. He is right as she a brilliant code breaker looking to see who is betraying Sanctuary and why.
They desire one another, but Rio refuses to act on her wants. Mercury jerks off every night as he thinks of making love to Rio who he senses wants him too. She knows if she lets her guard down he will destroy her heart as she realizes who he is to her, but he has met his soulmate and she is not her. Rio will never settle for being second best; besides there is something dangerously wrong in Sanctuary that must be uncovered.
The lead couple is an interesting pairing as his soulmate is dead and so he should not feel the way he does, but cannot stop his desire for her. The support cast is strong (a trademark of Lora Leigh) and Sanctuary described just enough for the audience to appreciate it as backdrop. With two great twists, fans of the Breed saga (see TANNER’S SCHEME, HARMONY’S WAY, and MEGAN’S MARK) will relish this strong entry although the climax is weak.
Harriet Klausner
Lora Leigh
Berkley, Oct 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9789425224182
Dr. Elyianna Morrey tells Sanctuary chief Jonas Wyatt that she is worried about lion breed enforcer Mercury Warrant, who has been off the anti feral drug for seven years. Her concerns focus on his attraction to Rio Rodriguez even though the couple has not even met. The scientist has seen the film of a berserker Mercury killing those he blamed for the death of his soulmate and fears a repercussion.
Two weeks later Rio arrives at Sanctuary to look over the expenses as the Leo, the father of her boss Dane, donates a lot of money here. Mercury is her bodyguard. She insists she is a human clerk, but he senses much more underneath her dowdy wardrobe. He is right as she a brilliant code breaker looking to see who is betraying Sanctuary and why.
They desire one another, but Rio refuses to act on her wants. Mercury jerks off every night as he thinks of making love to Rio who he senses wants him too. She knows if she lets her guard down he will destroy her heart as she realizes who he is to her, but he has met his soulmate and she is not her. Rio will never settle for being second best; besides there is something dangerously wrong in Sanctuary that must be uncovered.
The lead couple is an interesting pairing as his soulmate is dead and so he should not feel the way he does, but cannot stop his desire for her. The support cast is strong (a trademark of Lora Leigh) and Sanctuary described just enough for the audience to appreciate it as backdrop. With two great twists, fans of the Breed saga (see TANNER’S SCHEME, HARMONY’S WAY, and MEGAN’S MARK) will relish this strong entry although the climax is weak.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
The Holiday Inn-Farrah Rochon, Stefanie Worth White and Phyllis Bourne Williams
The Holiday Inn
Farrah Rochon, Stefanie Worth White and Phyllis Bourne Williams
Leisure, Oct 2008
ISBN: 0843961570
“A Change of Heart” by Farrah Rochon. Chandra and Derek are ending their marriage with one last family gathering with their kids at the Holiday Inn. They arrive before their children do, but a snowstorm isolates them together away from their kids.
“Can You Believe” by Stefanie Worth White. Naymond wants to be a star so he can give his wife Fallon material items that they cannot afford right now. Fallon wants her husband not this person who has no time for her while he chases stardom. The Spirit of Christmas visits this unhappy couple at the Holiday Inn to show each of them a dismal lonely future alone.
“By New Year’s Day” by Phyllis Bourne Williams. Devon is making a Hail Mary pass to save his marriage though he knows he will need a miracle. He takes his Eve on a romantic retreat to the Holiday Inn where none of their adult kids can make demands on their mom.
With a nod to It’s A Wonderful Life, these three whimsical second chances uses the magic of the HOLIDAY INN to rekindle lost dreams and mend broken relationships. The three couples are developed enough so that their differences seem real, which in turn makes each pair’s scenario plausible. Well written, fans will enjoy spending time at the enchanting Holiday Inn (even without Bing).
Harriet Klausner
Farrah Rochon, Stefanie Worth White and Phyllis Bourne Williams
Leisure, Oct 2008
ISBN: 0843961570
“A Change of Heart” by Farrah Rochon. Chandra and Derek are ending their marriage with one last family gathering with their kids at the Holiday Inn. They arrive before their children do, but a snowstorm isolates them together away from their kids.
“Can You Believe” by Stefanie Worth White. Naymond wants to be a star so he can give his wife Fallon material items that they cannot afford right now. Fallon wants her husband not this person who has no time for her while he chases stardom. The Spirit of Christmas visits this unhappy couple at the Holiday Inn to show each of them a dismal lonely future alone.
“By New Year’s Day” by Phyllis Bourne Williams. Devon is making a Hail Mary pass to save his marriage though he knows he will need a miracle. He takes his Eve on a romantic retreat to the Holiday Inn where none of their adult kids can make demands on their mom.
With a nod to It’s A Wonderful Life, these three whimsical second chances uses the magic of the HOLIDAY INN to rekindle lost dreams and mend broken relationships. The three couples are developed enough so that their differences seem real, which in turn makes each pair’s scenario plausible. Well written, fans will enjoy spending time at the enchanting Holiday Inn (even without Bing).
Harriet Klausner
Unwrap Me-Melissa MacNeal, Susan Lyons, Melissa Randall
Unwrap Me
Melissa MacNeal, Susan Lyons, Melissa Randall
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758228536
"Naughty Noelle" by Melissa MacNeal. Noelle is tired of nice so she wants to try naughty; her new neighbor Andy is the present she wants for the twelve days of Christmas and more.
"Unwrap Me” by Susan Lyons. Everyone considers Jude as a female Grinch, but her bah humbug attitude changes when her Secret Santa present arrives to ignite her fire.
"All She Craves for Christmas” by Melissa Randall. Former model Anita hires Dylan to renovate her home, but upon meeting the hunk she knows what she craves for Christmas.
These three erotic Yuletide romances are hot and entertaining. Although the plots are candy cane thin, fans will enjoy unwrapping the three presents as Santa or the Magi never delivered these gifts.
Harriet Klausner
Melissa MacNeal, Susan Lyons, Melissa Randall
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758228536
"Naughty Noelle" by Melissa MacNeal. Noelle is tired of nice so she wants to try naughty; her new neighbor Andy is the present she wants for the twelve days of Christmas and more.
"Unwrap Me” by Susan Lyons. Everyone considers Jude as a female Grinch, but her bah humbug attitude changes when her Secret Santa present arrives to ignite her fire.
"All She Craves for Christmas” by Melissa Randall. Former model Anita hires Dylan to renovate her home, but upon meeting the hunk she knows what she craves for Christmas.
These three erotic Yuletide romances are hot and entertaining. Although the plots are candy cane thin, fans will enjoy unwrapping the three presents as Santa or the Magi never delivered these gifts.
Harriet Klausner
Get Your Sexy On-Kimberly Kaye Terry
Get Your Sexy On
Kimberly Kaye Terry
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758222503
Sienna Featherstone strips under the name of Sinful Feathers. She performs her sexy gyrations, but keeps her mind detached as the erotic dancing job is just a means to pay off her debts. Her simple emotional compartmentalization and overall impassiveness suddenly changes when she notices someone in the audience to her shock; she has never observed any of the salivaters before private investigator Garrett “Mac” McAllister sits watching her show. She wants him and he obliges. The morning after Sienna knows she wants more from him, but instead flees out of fear.
For the next two years Mac keeps thinking of the erotic dancer he covets. When he finally sees her again, Mac knows she is the one for him and will not allow her to vanish this time. He learns of the danger that threatened her two years ago when she fled for his safety, but Mac remains at her side keeping her safe while loving her.
As with the dandy JUST LIKE CANDY, Kimberly Kaye Terry writes a wonderfully exciting erotic interracial romantic suspense. The vibrant sex scenes will have readers seeking their significant other to get sex with them. Yet in spite of the Venusian heat, the threat to Sienna enhances the overall plot as fans will wonder whether she will flee again and if not can Mac keep her safe. This is an enjoyable heated thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Kimberly Kaye Terry
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758222503
Sienna Featherstone strips under the name of Sinful Feathers. She performs her sexy gyrations, but keeps her mind detached as the erotic dancing job is just a means to pay off her debts. Her simple emotional compartmentalization and overall impassiveness suddenly changes when she notices someone in the audience to her shock; she has never observed any of the salivaters before private investigator Garrett “Mac” McAllister sits watching her show. She wants him and he obliges. The morning after Sienna knows she wants more from him, but instead flees out of fear.
For the next two years Mac keeps thinking of the erotic dancer he covets. When he finally sees her again, Mac knows she is the one for him and will not allow her to vanish this time. He learns of the danger that threatened her two years ago when she fled for his safety, but Mac remains at her side keeping her safe while loving her.
As with the dandy JUST LIKE CANDY, Kimberly Kaye Terry writes a wonderfully exciting erotic interracial romantic suspense. The vibrant sex scenes will have readers seeking their significant other to get sex with them. Yet in spite of the Venusian heat, the threat to Sienna enhances the overall plot as fans will wonder whether she will flee again and if not can Mac keep her safe. This is an enjoyable heated thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Hot Silk-Sharon Page
Hot Silk
Sharon Page
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758214911
Grace Hamilton believes a good marriage to a wealthy kind hearted aristocrat is her ticket amongst the Ton. However that means hiding her past especially her family from men interested in her. However, she finds gentlemen are a sham with one thing on their minds. Pirate and highwayman Nigel Sharpe rescues her from an untenable situation and they end up making love.
Two years later, neither has forgotten that one night of bliss. Devlin decides to use his nefarious skills to kidnap Grace. He succeeds in snatching her though she is a bit willing; they share a heavenly interlude until their tryst is disrupted when he is wounded and an odious thug abducts his Grace.
The third Hamilton sister superb erotic Regency romance works (see BLACK SILK and SIN) is a superb tale starring two likable lead characters and a nasty villain. The stars of the previous Hamilton sagas make appearances, but HOT SILK belongs to Grace and Nigel. Readers will appreciate their sexual encounters vividly described by Sharon Page, but it is the abduction and attempted rescue that make this a torrid historical page turner (just wear gloves).
Harriet Klausner
Sharon Page
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758214911
Grace Hamilton believes a good marriage to a wealthy kind hearted aristocrat is her ticket amongst the Ton. However that means hiding her past especially her family from men interested in her. However, she finds gentlemen are a sham with one thing on their minds. Pirate and highwayman Nigel Sharpe rescues her from an untenable situation and they end up making love.
Two years later, neither has forgotten that one night of bliss. Devlin decides to use his nefarious skills to kidnap Grace. He succeeds in snatching her though she is a bit willing; they share a heavenly interlude until their tryst is disrupted when he is wounded and an odious thug abducts his Grace.
The third Hamilton sister superb erotic Regency romance works (see BLACK SILK and SIN) is a superb tale starring two likable lead characters and a nasty villain. The stars of the previous Hamilton sagas make appearances, but HOT SILK belongs to Grace and Nigel. Readers will appreciate their sexual encounters vividly described by Sharon Page, but it is the abduction and attempted rescue that make this a torrid historical page turner (just wear gloves).
Harriet Klausner
Nights in Black Lace-Noelle Mack
Nights in Black Lace
Noelle Mack
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758221902
Hiking across Europe, Bryan Bachman stops in Paris before returning to his side of the big pond. With his last Euro he buys a fashion show raffle ticket and wins a catwalk seat at Oh! Oh! Odette.
Former model turned fashion designer Odette notices the Yank hunk, who makes a fashion statement while just sitting. She decides to take the seat next to him so she can meet the American and much more if she has her way. She does; over the next few days they share quite a tryst but she is a Europe sophisticate while he is American beach bum so their affair must soon end even though both say oui oui to more Oh! Oh!
The fun in this erotic romance is the vast class differences between Bryan and Odette as both seem like polar opposites yet are attracted to each other from the moment they first see one another. The story line is ultra heated with vivid sex, but it is the fully developed lead couple who make Noelle Mack’s tale interesting as readers wonder whether this diverse pair can have a morning after let alone a long time relationship.
Harriet Klausner
Noelle Mack
Kensington Aphrodisia, Oct 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758221902
Hiking across Europe, Bryan Bachman stops in Paris before returning to his side of the big pond. With his last Euro he buys a fashion show raffle ticket and wins a catwalk seat at Oh! Oh! Odette.
Former model turned fashion designer Odette notices the Yank hunk, who makes a fashion statement while just sitting. She decides to take the seat next to him so she can meet the American and much more if she has her way. She does; over the next few days they share quite a tryst but she is a Europe sophisticate while he is American beach bum so their affair must soon end even though both say oui oui to more Oh! Oh!
The fun in this erotic romance is the vast class differences between Bryan and Odette as both seem like polar opposites yet are attracted to each other from the moment they first see one another. The story line is ultra heated with vivid sex, but it is the fully developed lead couple who make Noelle Mack’s tale interesting as readers wonder whether this diverse pair can have a morning after let alone a long time relationship.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, September 8, 2008
Shadow Rider-Kathrynn Dennis
Shadow Rider
Kathrynn Dennis
Zebra, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9781420100488
In December 1390, Sir Guy of Warwick does not feel the cold as his heart is already frozen. He lives for one thing only to avenge the murder of his sister Roselyn and her newborn John by sending the vile villain to hell whether it was a demon or a mortal.
Unmarried and with no male protection, twenty year old Sybilla Corbuc knows the priest of her village Corbury will be irate if he catches her; as she explains to her companion young Etienne if caught she will be convicted as a Separist and tossed naked into the nearby woods. However, shehas no choice but to help the mare give birth on a freezing night so that at least the foal survives. Sir Guy comes across them in the barn and offers to buy the colt that he believes will somehow tell him who his sibling’s killer is. As they fall in love, the ambitious local sheriff wants his land, the priest wants her burned, and an aristocrat wants both dead; only a strange mysterious newborn horse can keep them alive if they believe in one another and in the power of the colt.
This is a fascinating medieval romance with a touch of mysticism that enhances the tale as readers will wonder early on whether the lead couple is simply superstitious or if the colt has special powers; the colt makes the story line fresh. Guy is an interesting protagonist who until he meets Sybilla and the colt lives for vengeance only, but now that his heart is thawed has a greater reason to live. Fans will relish this fine look at late fourteenth century England.
Harriet Klausner
Kathrynn Dennis
Zebra, Oct 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9781420100488
In December 1390, Sir Guy of Warwick does not feel the cold as his heart is already frozen. He lives for one thing only to avenge the murder of his sister Roselyn and her newborn John by sending the vile villain to hell whether it was a demon or a mortal.
Unmarried and with no male protection, twenty year old Sybilla Corbuc knows the priest of her village Corbury will be irate if he catches her; as she explains to her companion young Etienne if caught she will be convicted as a Separist and tossed naked into the nearby woods. However, shehas no choice but to help the mare give birth on a freezing night so that at least the foal survives. Sir Guy comes across them in the barn and offers to buy the colt that he believes will somehow tell him who his sibling’s killer is. As they fall in love, the ambitious local sheriff wants his land, the priest wants her burned, and an aristocrat wants both dead; only a strange mysterious newborn horse can keep them alive if they believe in one another and in the power of the colt.
This is a fascinating medieval romance with a touch of mysticism that enhances the tale as readers will wonder early on whether the lead couple is simply superstitious or if the colt has special powers; the colt makes the story line fresh. Guy is an interesting protagonist who until he meets Sybilla and the colt lives for vengeance only, but now that his heart is thawed has a greater reason to live. Fans will relish this fine look at late fourteenth century England.
Harriet Klausner
The Diary of Cozette-Amanda McIntyre
The Diary of Cozette
Amanda McIntyre
Harlequin Spice, Oct 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780373605255
In 1869, soon to turn fourteen Anne Cozette Bennett is the youngest of and one of only two surviving seven children. She learns from her widowed mom that she is sending her to live with her aunt and uncle as she lacks the strength to raise her and care for her dying brother. Aunt Eleanor is stern in demanding Cozette study her lessons and helps the housemaid with simple chores. However, her three year older cousin Edward continually molests her while Eleanor holds her niece culpable. He tells his parents she stripped and they believe him as he is from good grooming and she is fifth. Haggard Uncle Fredericks sends his niece away to an orphanage as Edward evilly smiles.
However, her second lesson occurs when the orphanage owner sells her virginity to the highest bidder. Her friend Ernest helps her to escape before the sale is completed. She lives on the street garbed as a boy before finding a prostitute who mentors her on the art of pleasing men for money. Lord and lady Archibald hire her as a maid. Cozette is happy until she meets Lord Francois Deveraux who plays her like a virtuoso breaking her heart, but not her soul.
This first person account of the Victorian life of a female not of the aristocracy is a superb historical. Cozette makes the tale as she learns plenty of hard lessons from her encounters with so called upright citizens; she becomes nineteenth century street smart. Amanda McIntyre provides a deep “autobiographical” tale as THE DIARY OF COZETTE is a fascinating look from a victim's perspective of those who abuse their power.
Harriet Klausner
Amanda McIntyre
Harlequin Spice, Oct 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780373605255
In 1869, soon to turn fourteen Anne Cozette Bennett is the youngest of and one of only two surviving seven children. She learns from her widowed mom that she is sending her to live with her aunt and uncle as she lacks the strength to raise her and care for her dying brother. Aunt Eleanor is stern in demanding Cozette study her lessons and helps the housemaid with simple chores. However, her three year older cousin Edward continually molests her while Eleanor holds her niece culpable. He tells his parents she stripped and they believe him as he is from good grooming and she is fifth. Haggard Uncle Fredericks sends his niece away to an orphanage as Edward evilly smiles.
However, her second lesson occurs when the orphanage owner sells her virginity to the highest bidder. Her friend Ernest helps her to escape before the sale is completed. She lives on the street garbed as a boy before finding a prostitute who mentors her on the art of pleasing men for money. Lord and lady Archibald hire her as a maid. Cozette is happy until she meets Lord Francois Deveraux who plays her like a virtuoso breaking her heart, but not her soul.
This first person account of the Victorian life of a female not of the aristocracy is a superb historical. Cozette makes the tale as she learns plenty of hard lessons from her encounters with so called upright citizens; she becomes nineteenth century street smart. Amanda McIntyre provides a deep “autobiographical” tale as THE DIARY OF COZETTE is a fascinating look from a victim's perspective of those who abuse their power.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, September 7, 2008
The Chosen Sin-Anya Bast
The Chosen Sin
Anya Bast
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223567
In the lawless Logos Territory on Darpong in the Nabovsky Galaxy, Governing Body of the Chosen (GBC) vampiric agent Alejandro Martinez and Allied Bureau of Investigation (ABI) human operative Daria Moran meet at the Blood Spot. Meet might be a soft way to describe their first encounter in seven years as she catches him breaking GBC law by taking blood from a wiling veilhounder. Before he was Chosen, they had shared an incredible night of sex, but she makes it clear no second round and he is to keep his fangs inside.
Their joint mission is to end the murderous drug and people smuggling reign of ancient rogue vampire Christopher Sante; complicating matters for the pair is Sante is Chosen. Alejandro and Daria go undercover as mates; he being obviously the vamp and she is sucubare. He wonders if Sante destroyed Daria’s innocence that he remembers from their brief tryst; she conceals her need for vengeance as Sante betrayed her and killed her friend. However, as the two operatives work to infiltrate Sante’s stronghold, they find their desire for one another as strong as ever.
This is an exciting thriller that uses elements from urban fantasy, space opera and police procedurals to provide an entertaining erotic romantic suspense tale. The lead couple is dynamite as their kinky-light sexual interludes enhance their undercover operation. Fans will appreciate THE CHOSEN SIN as Anya Bast is at her best with this strong outer space vampiric saga.
Harriet Klausner
Anya Bast
Berkley, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223567
In the lawless Logos Territory on Darpong in the Nabovsky Galaxy, Governing Body of the Chosen (GBC) vampiric agent Alejandro Martinez and Allied Bureau of Investigation (ABI) human operative Daria Moran meet at the Blood Spot. Meet might be a soft way to describe their first encounter in seven years as she catches him breaking GBC law by taking blood from a wiling veilhounder. Before he was Chosen, they had shared an incredible night of sex, but she makes it clear no second round and he is to keep his fangs inside.
Their joint mission is to end the murderous drug and people smuggling reign of ancient rogue vampire Christopher Sante; complicating matters for the pair is Sante is Chosen. Alejandro and Daria go undercover as mates; he being obviously the vamp and she is sucubare. He wonders if Sante destroyed Daria’s innocence that he remembers from their brief tryst; she conceals her need for vengeance as Sante betrayed her and killed her friend. However, as the two operatives work to infiltrate Sante’s stronghold, they find their desire for one another as strong as ever.
This is an exciting thriller that uses elements from urban fantasy, space opera and police procedurals to provide an entertaining erotic romantic suspense tale. The lead couple is dynamite as their kinky-light sexual interludes enhance their undercover operation. Fans will appreciate THE CHOSEN SIN as Anya Bast is at her best with this strong outer space vampiric saga.
Harriet Klausner
Warrior’s Lady-Gerri Russell
Warrior’s Lady
Gerri Russell
Leisure, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780843961119
In 1377, Clara Lockhart is accused of witchcraft by the Bishop for using the healing powers of the Charm Stone brought back by her late spouse’s family from the Holy Land Crusades. Clara expects to die, but begs Mother Agnes to protect her hidden young daughter Violet and the stone. The Bishop demands Clara hand him the Charm Stone, but she refuses though he threatens Violet.
At about the same time that the Bishop interrogates Clara, Camden finds his brother and six others dead, victims of the ruthless Ruthven clan who massacred them at Lee Castle. He vows vengeance aginst all of Ruthven blood and hires mercenaries to kill his enemy while he searches for his sister in law Clara and niece Violet.
Following a horrific beating from her brother Dugal, Rhiannon Ruthven takes shelter at the abbey run by Mother Agnes. However, Agnes believes the young woman is the answer to her prayers; someone to escort Violet and the Charm Stone to the child’s Uncle Camden. Rhiannon agrees to escorts Violet to Camden. When she does, he intially does not trust her as she is a Ruthven, but observes her lioness protection of the orphaned cub Violet. As they fall in love, Camden still wants to destroy the blood thirsty Ruthven, but risks his life to keep Rhiannon safe from his hired guns as much as from her siblings.
Gerri Russell's third medieval “Warrior” romance (see THE WARRIOR'S BRIDE and THE WARRIOR TRAINER) is an exciting paranormal historical. The star-crossed lovers share in common several things starting with a need to keep little Violet safe and leading to love between them. The story line is action-packed from the onset when Clara knows she will die in spite of her innocence. Ms. Russell provides another fresh fourteenth century Scottish romance.
Harriet Klausner
Gerri Russell
Leisure, Oct 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780843961119
In 1377, Clara Lockhart is accused of witchcraft by the Bishop for using the healing powers of the Charm Stone brought back by her late spouse’s family from the Holy Land Crusades. Clara expects to die, but begs Mother Agnes to protect her hidden young daughter Violet and the stone. The Bishop demands Clara hand him the Charm Stone, but she refuses though he threatens Violet.
At about the same time that the Bishop interrogates Clara, Camden finds his brother and six others dead, victims of the ruthless Ruthven clan who massacred them at Lee Castle. He vows vengeance aginst all of Ruthven blood and hires mercenaries to kill his enemy while he searches for his sister in law Clara and niece Violet.
Following a horrific beating from her brother Dugal, Rhiannon Ruthven takes shelter at the abbey run by Mother Agnes. However, Agnes believes the young woman is the answer to her prayers; someone to escort Violet and the Charm Stone to the child’s Uncle Camden. Rhiannon agrees to escorts Violet to Camden. When she does, he intially does not trust her as she is a Ruthven, but observes her lioness protection of the orphaned cub Violet. As they fall in love, Camden still wants to destroy the blood thirsty Ruthven, but risks his life to keep Rhiannon safe from his hired guns as much as from her siblings.
Gerri Russell's third medieval “Warrior” romance (see THE WARRIOR'S BRIDE and THE WARRIOR TRAINER) is an exciting paranormal historical. The star-crossed lovers share in common several things starting with a need to keep little Violet safe and leading to love between them. The story line is action-packed from the onset when Clara knows she will die in spite of her innocence. Ms. Russell provides another fresh fourteenth century Scottish romance.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, September 5, 2008
Bare Witness-Katherine Garbera
Bare Witness
Katherine Garbera
Kensington Brava, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758222335
Liberty Investigations no “angel” Justine O'Neill cannot understand why her boss Sam Liberty would take on a job for Baron Industries owned by her late stepfather’s family; the same stepfather, Justine as the juvenile Jackie Conrad killed him for molesting her. Although the client that Sam expects her to protect is the CEO of Baron Industry he is not a Baron. Still she would prefer to let her two only friends and Angelic associates Charity Keone (See BARE FACTS) or Anna Sterling play bodyguard to Nigel Carter.
Justine, who trusts no man except barely Sam, and Nigel are attracted to one another from their first meeting. However, she is all professional trying to persuade him to leave his daughter Piper and her nanny Constance Wareham in the states rather than take her with him to the Amazon Basin where they are going accompanied by his new bodyguard. Waiting for them in Lima is Charity and Anna even as mercenaries target father and daughter. All hell breaks loose in South America when Piper is kidnapped.
The second Liberty Investigations homage to Charlie's Angels is an engaging romantic suspense that never slows down from the moment the plane lands in Lima. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action as the lead couple risks their lives to rescue his daughter. Although the romantic interludes after the abduction seem wrong, they are fascinating because of Justine’s total distrust of males and her sexual molestation as a child. Readers will enjoy this fine thriller with one more Angel’s tale for Katherine Garbera to “bare” with her fans.
Harriet Klausner
Katherine Garbera
Kensington Brava, Oct 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758222335
Liberty Investigations no “angel” Justine O'Neill cannot understand why her boss Sam Liberty would take on a job for Baron Industries owned by her late stepfather’s family; the same stepfather, Justine as the juvenile Jackie Conrad killed him for molesting her. Although the client that Sam expects her to protect is the CEO of Baron Industry he is not a Baron. Still she would prefer to let her two only friends and Angelic associates Charity Keone (See BARE FACTS) or Anna Sterling play bodyguard to Nigel Carter.
Justine, who trusts no man except barely Sam, and Nigel are attracted to one another from their first meeting. However, she is all professional trying to persuade him to leave his daughter Piper and her nanny Constance Wareham in the states rather than take her with him to the Amazon Basin where they are going accompanied by his new bodyguard. Waiting for them in Lima is Charity and Anna even as mercenaries target father and daughter. All hell breaks loose in South America when Piper is kidnapped.
The second Liberty Investigations homage to Charlie's Angels is an engaging romantic suspense that never slows down from the moment the plane lands in Lima. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action as the lead couple risks their lives to rescue his daughter. Although the romantic interludes after the abduction seem wrong, they are fascinating because of Justine’s total distrust of males and her sexual molestation as a child. Readers will enjoy this fine thriller with one more Angel’s tale for Katherine Garbera to “bare” with her fans.
Harriet Klausner
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)